Boeing intended to replace its 727 series of aircraft with a new-technology leapfrog that would be more fuel-efficient than the competing Airbus A320 yet still retain many Boeing systems and components for easier integration into customers’ existing fleets. The 7J7 was intended to be a 150-seat, six-abreast trunkliner using the General Electric GE36 UDF (unducted fan) engine.
Boeing’s sales efforts ran from 1985 to 1987, just as Republic was moving into the economic position to invest in more and bigger aircraft. If it had moved to launch, initial deliveries were supposed to have started in 1992 – 1993. Lukewarm reception to the idea and Boeing’s uncertainty about the GE36’s ability to handle a stretched airframe pushed the company to abandon the 7J7 development and instead double-down on its 737 series.
Republic certainly could have used more 150-seat aircraft and its mid-continent hubs were perfectly positioned to make the best use of its anticipated range. However, the 1992 entry date was too far out in time for RC’s needs despite the promise of strong fuel savings versus its MD-80s and 727-200s.
If you use these photos, please credit the Northwest Airlines History Center – please also contact us to let us know how you’re using them and if we can be of further help!
