QRCC2B
24th Sep 2005, 12:33
From what I know there is no nonstop service available between DFW and SYD, but which aircraft(s) would be able to fly this route nonstop (approx. 13,800 kms)?
QRCC2B
OverRun
26th Sep 2005, 00:03
I took a look at the Boeing 777-200LR on the DFW-SYD route. With its 180mins ETOPS, there is only a slight course deviation needed. The problem was checked for going west - against the wind. I’m not too sure of the 85% winds used for planning on the Pacific, but I estimated an average 70 knots headwind.
The B777 seems to make it - just – with nothing to spare in the tanks (289 kgs actually), and it needs the optional rear cargo bay tanks fitted to do the run. However it can haul a full load of pax and bags, plus 8000kg cargo.
SUMMARY
Distance 7472 nm
Flight time 20.6 hours
Passengers 297 = full
Cargo 8000 kgs
Takeoff weight 343780 kgs
Fuel load 162119 kgs
Notes: 162408 kg fuel capacity needed
These are approximate, and anyone using them for real should be better at swimming than critical judgement. And Sydney thunderstorm holding fuel could be a problem. There might be the occasional tech stop needed.
Not sure of the demand on the route though. Not enough to justify the city pair involved, and I think that LAX is the better hub for a myriad of reasons.