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

Ryan Ewing
Verified
Photo: Holden Riley
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

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 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)

Ryan Ewing

Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com in February 2013 and has spent more than a decade covering the airline business. His work has been featured by CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. His aviation experience spans airport operations, Part 135 regulatory compliance, and airline crew workforce planning, along with time behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 and interviews with airline executives. Ryan now serves as Group President of Firecrown Media’s Aviation Group. He holds a B.S. in Air Transportation Management and an MBA from Arizona State University and teaches Airline Management at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

3 responses to “The Doors Are Opening for United’s First 777-300ER”

  1. Kai Humphreys Avatar
    Kai Humphreys

    I sure hope United Airlines bring back their iconic tulip the United/Continental brand just doesn’t look right on their livery

    Reply
    1. jetserf Avatar
      jetserf

      The tulip was from the old United Airlines. That carrier ceased to exist when the merger happened. The current livery is that of the new combined company.

      Reply
      1. Hamish Morgenstern Avatar
        Hamish Morgenstern

        i’m glad somebody gets it

        Reply
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