The Sonic Cruiser created somewhat of a sensation when first announced, but airlines and Boeing became progressively less enthusiastic over the ensuing months. The aircraft would require rather substantial improvements in technology to achieve its stated goals of cruising at about Mach 0.95, compared to Mach 0.8 for most commercial airliners, over a range between 6,000 nm and 10,000 nm (11,120 km to 18,530 km). This kind of technological advancement could well drive up the cost so much that most airlines showed no willingness to commit to the idea. Even the percieved advantage of a faster commercial aircraft caused concern because of all the scheduling difficulties it would raise. The terrible financial situation of the airlines after September 11 only worsened prospects for launching the design. Due to this lackluster response and its inability to make a strong business case for the aircraft, Boeing officially shelved the Sonic Cruiser concept in December 2002.
In its place, the company has decided to refocus its attention on a conventional 250-seat design that had been under consideration in tandem with the Sonic Cruiser. The conventional design, originally known as Project Yellowstone, will cruise in the Mach 0.8 region but incorporate advanced "super-efficient" technologies to significantly lower operating costs in comparison with today's airliners. However, the new airliner is apparently not to be known as the 787 but has been designated the 7E7, E standing for Efficient. We now know that the 7E7 designation was only temporary and the new Boeing aircraft has been officially renamed the 787. Since the basic designs of both the 767 and A310 are getting upwards of 25 or 30 years in age, a replacement in that market is probably a wise move on Boeing's part. In addition, the potential savings in operational costs offered by the new efficient technologies are very appealing to cost-concious airlines
In its place, the company has decided to refocus its attention on a conventional 250-seat design that had been under consideration in tandem with the Sonic Cruiser. The conventional design, originally known as Project Yellowstone, will cruise in the Mach 0.8 region but incorporate advanced "super-efficient" technologies to significantly lower operating costs in comparison with today's airliners. However, the new airliner is apparently not to be known as the 787 but has been designated the 7E7, E standing for Efficient. We now know that the 7E7 designation was only temporary and the new Boeing aircraft has been officially renamed the 787. Since the basic designs of both the 767 and A310 are getting upwards of 25 or 30 years in age, a replacement in that market is probably a wise move on Boeing's part. In addition, the potential savings in operational costs offered by the new efficient technologies are very appealing to cost-concious airlines
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