Goodrich completes flight testing with its Boeing Next-Generation 737 carbon brake

Goodrich Corporation (NYSE: GR) has successfully completed flight testing of its Boeing Next-Generation 737 wheels and carbon brakes. Formal certification of the equipment is expected in the second half of 2009, and the brakes available for delivery on production airplanes in the first half of 2010.

The new wheels and carbon brakes, which will be fully compatible with all Next-Generation 737 models, provide a weight savings of approximately 700 pounds (318 kg) per airplane compared to high capacity steel brakes and 550 pounds (250 kg) compared to standard capacity steel brakes. According to Jim Wharton, vice president of Commercial Aircraft Wheels & Brakes at Goodrich, "Because the weight saving reduces fuel burn and carbon dioxide emissions, Goodrich is seeing significant airline interest in the new wheel and carbon brake. Goodrich has both steel and carbon brakes available for this aircraft, allowing airlines to select the equipment best suited to their operational needs."