Boeing ecoDemonstrator testing technologies to improve cabin recyclability, operational efficiency

Boeing is testing three dozen technologies on its ecoDemonstrator program 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 cover a wide variety of areas, including testing to enable single-engine taxi and digital taxi clearances to reduce fuel use and enhance safety by reducing pilot workload; working to reduce community noise, fuel use and emissions, using lighter, recyclable and more durable floor coverings and recycled carbon fiber ceiling panels; developing cabin insulation to better reduce noise and regulate humidity and temperature, and fabric-covered acoustic panels for the bulkhead and galley, as well as future cabin concepts, such as seats with sensors that detect if someone is seated during taxi, take-off and landing; a touchless water conservation lavatory; and galley technologies to make cabin service more efficient and reduce food waste. ""The Boeing ecoDemonstrator program helps us make tangible improvements to our products – allowing us to reduce the environmental impacts of flying, improve the in-flight experience and strengthen the safety of our airplanes,"" said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. ""We're grateful for the many partnerships within aviation and beyond who help us turn the seemingly impossible into reality."" ""The ecoDemonstrator program is among our most iconic flight demonstrators, having tested 250 technologies since it first took flight in 2012,"" said Brian Moran, Boeing Chief Sustainability Officer. ""This year's testing of various cabin interiors aims to help solve for the portion of our airplanes that is not reusable or recyclable while also reducing fuel use and crew workload.""