938Jet Is 'No Simple Stretch'

Fairchild Dornier's planned 100-seat 928JET will be optimized for efficiency with a larger wing than its sister 728JET and CF34-10D engines each developing 17,100 lbs thrust.

The changes add 5.5 ft. to the aircraft's wingspan and increase wing area to 908.5 sq. ft. from 807 sq. ft. for the 70-seat 728JET, according to John Wolf, executive vice-president and chief operating officer for Fairchild Dornier.

The 728JET uses CF34-8D3 engines each producing 12,500 lbs of thrust.

Like the 728JET, the 928JET will use Honeywell Epic avionics, Parker hydraulics, BFGoodrich landing gear and fuel systems and Honeywell's environmental control system and auxiliary power unit.
Bavaria Aircraft Leasing has ordered four 928JETs and placed options for two more. Leasing company GE Commercial Aircraft Services holds options that are convertible to 928JETs.
First flight of the 928JET is scheduled for late 2004 and entry into service in early 2005.

By Paul Proctor