DAE Capital invests in new wing technology to enhance cost and environmental performance

Dubai, Sept 24, 2008 (WAM) - DAE Capital, the aircraft leasing and financial business arm of Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE), has signed an agreement with Aviation Partners Boeing (APB) to purchase 50 ship sets of Blended Winglets for their new 737-700/800 next-generation aircraft, due for delivery starting 2010 according to a report in ‘Gulf News.’

Winglet technology (extended raised wingtips) is an effective way of making an aircraft more aerodynamically efficient. The reduction of drag on the wingspan improves take-off performance, climb rates, and increased payload and range capacity, together with reduced noise.

Aircraft upgraded with Blended Winglets have been shown to help cut fuel consumption, with block fuel savings of up to five per cent, depending upon route and stage length.

Fuel savings for typical 737-800/700 operators can exceed 100,000 gallons per aircraft per year with payback on the winglet investment typically taking between two and three years.

Additional benefits of this technology include reduced engine maintenance costs, lower engine emissions and less noise during takeoff.