Nov 16 2009
Goodrich Corporation's (NYSE: GR) Aircraft Wheels and Brakes business has been selected by flydubai to supply wheels and carbon brakes for its new fleet of 54 Boeing Next-Generation 737-800 aircraft. The selection is expected to generate up to $22 million in revenue over the life of the contract, including aftermarket support. Aircraft deliveries with the Goodrich wheel and brake equipment are expected to begin in March 2010 and continue through 2013.
The wheels and carbon brakes will use Goodrich's proprietary DURACARB carbon material, which 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.
Jim Wharton, vice president of sales and program management for Goodrich Aircraft Wheels and Brakes, said, "Selection of Goodrich advanced lightweight wheels and carbon brakes will improve the operational performance of flydubai's new Next-Generation 737 fleet. Our DURACARB is becoming the industry benchmark, offering superior landing performance with lower weight, reducing fuel burn and lowering carbon dioxide emissions."
Ghaith al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer of flydubai, said, "As the region's premier low cost airline, we look forward to realizing many advantages with Goodrich's revolutionary DURACARB carbon brake product. This product will increase our brake removal intervals and significantly reduce the weight of the aircraft in service, thus enabling us to lower our operating costs. We also will enjoy the added benefit of fewer emissions due to the significant weight savings the Goodrich wheels and brakes bring to our Next-Generation 737 fleet."
Owned by the government of Dubai, flydubai is Dubai's first low cost airline and started commercial flights on June 1, 2009. The airline currently has a fleet of five Next-Generation B737-800 aircraft and operates to eight routes, making it one of the fastest growing start-up airlines in the world.