Boeing is testing three dozen technologies on its ecoDemonstrator programme focused on strengthening operational efficiency and sustainability in cabin interiors, one of the most challenging parts of recycling an airplane. The company will begin testing this month using a 777-200ER (Extended Range).

The Boeing ecoDemonstrator projects include:

• Airport operations: Testing to enable single-engine taxi and digital taxi clearances to reduce fuel use and enhance safety by reducing pilot workload.
• Airport noise: Quantifying the benefits of flight operation procedures, like steeper glide slope and continuous descent approach, to reduce community noise, fuel use and emissions.
• Waste-reducing materials: Lighter, recyclable and more durable floor coverings and recycled carbon fiber ceiling panels – both made with 25 per cent bio-based resin.
• Noise and weight reduction: Cabin insulation to better reduce noise and regulate humidity and temperature, and fabric-covered acoustic panels for the bulkhead and galley.
• Future cabin concepts: Economy and business class seats with sensors that detect if someone is seated during taxi, takeoff and landing which can improve safety, and reduce crew workload and downtime for maintenance; a touchless water conservation lavatory; and galley technologies to make cabin service more efficient and reduce food waste.

Since its initial flights in 2012, almost every platform of the Boeing ecoDemonstrator programme has flown on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and this year, the flagship airplane will fly on a 30/70 blend of SAF and conventional jet fuel.