A Boeing Next-Generation 737-700 aircraft was delivered to Delta Air Lines last week -- the first of 10 aircraft of that type that Delta has on order from Boeing. The new aircraft is the first of its type to have carbon brakes, rather than the older style steel brakes. Boeing announced that it earned certification last week from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration for the new carbon brakes designed for the Next-Generation 737. The brakes are supplied by Messier-Bugatti.Carbon brakes weigh 700 pounds (320 kg) less than high-capacity steel brakes for Next-Generation 737-700, -800 and -900ER (Extended Range) airplanes; and 550 pounds (250 kg) less than standard-capacity steel brakes for Next-Generation 737-600s and -700s. According to Boeing, their reduced weight contributes to reductions in associated fuel burn and CO2 emissions, depending on airline operations. The combination of lighter-weight carbon brakes with drag- and emissions-reducing Blended Winglets on Next Generation 737s is expected to improve operating and fuel efficiency simultaneously.
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