Boeing 757 test-bed plane showcases Honeywell R&D capabilities in Dubai

Honeywell’s Boeing 757 test-bed aircraft arrived in Dubai for a three-day stop as part of final testing for a revolutionary new GX Aviation, high-speed inflight Wi-Fi network arriving to airlines and business jets later this year.

The jet has been used for research and development by the US company since 2008, and arriving in Dubai last week it had completed more than 400 flight tests in some 15 countries, spending in excess of 1,700 hours in the air.

"As a country that places the aviation industry at the heart of its long-term economic growth, the UAE is an essential destination for Honeywell to showcase – and implement – its pioneering industry vision and leading-edge technology solutions," the company said.

The aircraft is currently taking part in a global test of Inmarsat’s GX Aviation network and Honeywell’s portfolio of JetWave satellite communications equipment, which together provide a high-speed, inflight wireless broadband service delivering "home equivalent" Wi-Fi in the air, it said.

"The company 757 test aircraft’s visit to Dubai reinforces our commitment to our customers and the regional aerospace industry," said Norm Gilsdorf, the president of Honeywell’s Middle East, Russia and central Asia regions. "Since 2008, Honeywell’s flying test aircraft has helped shape modern aviation through the most advanced and capable safety, efficiency and performance technologies.

"We are especially pleased therefore to bring the 757 to the UAE – a country that embraces innovation like no other."

The aircraft also features a distinct third-engine pylon, which can be used to test and help to certify some of Honeywell’s engines, including the HTF7000 and TFE731 series.

"Honeywell’s flight team puts every piece of technology through rigorous tests that reflect every possible real-world scenario that could happen, so that when a product does make it on to an airplane it’s the safest and most efficient product on the market," said Scott Nyberg, the chief test pilot for Honeywell Aerospace.

"At a time when innovation is at the forefront of the nation’s mind, it is an honour to land the Honeywell 757 on Dubai’s soil to showcase Honeywell’s aviation technology vision for the flight of the future."