First Boeing Next-Generation 737 with Goodrich DURACARB carbon brakes enters service

The first Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft equipped with Goodrich Corporation DURACARB carbon brakes has been delivered to flydubai, Dubai's first low cost airline. This is the seventh Next-Generation 737 the airline has received in less than 10 months of commercial operations. Goodrich will supply wheels and carbon brake equipment for flydubai's entire fleet of more than 50 Boeing Next-Generation 737-800 aircraft and will retrofit the airline's existing six aircraft. The wheels and carbon brakes will 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. In addition to the fuel cost savings from the reduced weight, the Goodrich DURACARB carbon brake also offers airlines significantly higher brake life compared to steel brakes. Jim Wharton, vice president of sales and program management for Goodrich Aircraft Wheels and Brakes, said "Goodrich is now able to offer a carbon brake option for all models of the Boeing Next Generation 737 platform. Airlines have expressed great interest in our carbon brake option due to the lower weight and resulting fuel burn reduction. Our DURACARB(R) carbon material continues to demonstrate superior brake life performance on other in-service programs and we now look forward to providing the same benefit to new and existing 737 Next Generation operators."