How to Identify a Boeing 777

Carry 300 or more people 10,000 miles on two engines? Boeing believes its new 777 will be a major player on very-long-distance international routes in the 21st century.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Film
• Cameras
• Binoculars
• Computers
• Camcorders
• Computer Desks
• Disposable Cameras
• Camera Lenses
• SLR Camera
• Camera Accessories
• Camera Tripod
• Aircraft Band Scanner
• Air & Space Subscriptions
• Aviation Illustrated Magazine
• Flying Magazines

1. Look for a large aircraft. The Boeing 777 is the largest twin-engine jet aircraft ever built.
2. Look for a twin-engine jet, with engines mounted on pylons below each wing, but with most of the engine resting forward of the leading edge of the wing.
3. Note that the engines have a much larger diameter at front compared to the rear portion.
4. Consider the overall size of the airplane. The 777 seems too large to be powered by only two jet engines.
5. Check the landing gear. The 777 is the only twin-engine jet transport with six wheels on each gear assembly.
6. Note that the 777 does not have a tail cone. The fuselage terminates in a wedge shape that appears as a straight line when viewed from the side.
7. Remember, the 777 is distinctive because it has two passenger doors between the wing and the nose.

Tips & Warnings

• Boeing wholeheartedly entered the digital age with the 777. This aircraft is completely "fly-by-wire," with pilots essentially operating computers to control the plane.
• Take along a video camera as well as a regular camera and binoculars or telescope when plane-watching. The power of modern jet aircraft, combined with flight plans mandating noise abatement, means you may see spectacular maneuvers during some takeoffs and landings.
• The Boeing 777 appears deceptively similar to other modern commercial jet aircraft, but the prosaic shell encloses a $4-billion-dollar investment in revolutionary technology.
• Honor security and safety regulations when on airport property.