Paul Lewis/SINGAPORE
A group of US engineering consultants is discussing the possibility of re-engineing the Fokker F28, to extend the twinjet's operational life with a quieter and more fuel-efficient turbofan.
The modification is being offered as an interim solution to meeting stricter airport noise regulations, until new 70-seat regional jets are available from Bombardier and Aero International (Regional) in 2000/2001.
Perry, a Salt Lake City-based consultancy, is studying the idea of fitting the aircraft with either the BMW Rolls-Royce BR 710, General Electric CF34-8C or Rolls-Royce Tay 620 engines.
The new power plant would replace the F28's Spey engines.
To offset the new engine's increased weight, it is proposed to insert a 1.1m plug into the aircraft's fuselage, forward of the main wing. The extended fuselage would allow for the installation of an additional row of passenger seats.
The proposed re-engineing work is targeted mainly at F28 Mk 1000/4000 aircraft operators. Sources suggest that there is a potential market for up to 60 of the estimated 160 F28 Mk 1000/4000s remaining in service worldwide.
Seattle-based Horizon Air, is understood to be interested in re-engineing its fleet of 12 F28 Mk1000s, while SAS is also considering the proposal, for some of its 19-strong F28 fleet.
Source: Flight International
