The Doors Are Opening for United’s First 777-300ER

Photo: Holden Riley

[ Airlines ]October 20, 2016 8:41 pm ET

By Ryan Ewing

In hopes of accelerating retirement of their aging Boeing 747-400 aircraft, United has actively been modernizing their widebody fleet. On March 8, 2016, the airline announced a firm order for 10 Boeing 777-300ERs, as well as 27 787 Dreamliners and 35 Airbus A350XWBs.

According to the carrier, the 777-300ER will provide “attractive upgauge and range opportunities to the company at competitive economics.” The new airplane is expected to replace routes initially operated by the 747, particularly within the Asian market.

The aircraft will also debut United’s new Polaris business class product, which features enhanced dining, special lounges, and a fully lie-flat seat. Polaris is expected to launch on December 1, 2016.

BONUS STORY: An Exclusive Look at United’s New Polaris Product

The first United 777, registry N777UA, with special “Working together” titles on the nose section (Photo: Solitude [CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons)

The first 777-300ER, N58031 (LN 1454), rolled out of Boeing’s Everett facility late Wednesday evening after being delayed due to inclement weather. The aircraft features two GE-90-115B1b engines, which are among the largest engines in the world by diameter.

United will join American Airlines as the only US carriers operating the extended 777.

In 1995, United became the first carrier to introduce the 777 into service with a flight from London to Washington-Dulles. Today, this aircraft (N777UA) is still in service.

The airplane’s first flight is still to be determined, however the aircraft is expected to be delivered by December.

Photos of the United 777-300ER rollout:

*All photos provided by Holden Riley (@PlanesAtPaine)

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Ryan Ewing

Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.

Follow Ryan

Author

Ryan Ewing

Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.
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