Technical Features

High-bypass-ratio engines combined with the wing design help make the 757 one of the quietest, most fuel-efficient jetliners in the world. When compared to any single-aisle jetliner in service today, the 757 is unsurpassed in fuel-efficiency. It consumes up to 43 percent less fuel per seat than older trijets.

The 757's wing is less swept and is thicker through the center than earlier aircraft, permitting a longer span. Its lower surface is slightly flatter, and the leading edge somewhat sharper. Taken together, these changes improve lift and reduce drag for greater aerodynamic efficiency and lower fuel consumption.

With the improved wing design, less engine power is required for takeoff and landing. Even with full passenger payload, the 757-200 can operate from runways as short as those used by the much smaller 737-200 jetliner. In addition, the 757 can reach a higher cruise altitude more quickly than many other jetliners.

These improvements reduce community noise of the already quiet 757-200 engines. In fact, noise levels are significantly lower than the requirements set forth in U. S. Federal Aviation Regulation Part 36, Stage 3, as well as ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) Annex 16 Chapter 3.

Lightweight materials contribute to the overall efficiency of the 757 models.

• Improved aluminum alloys, primarily in the wing skins, save 610 pounds (276 kilograms).
• Advanced composites such as graphite/epoxy are used in control surfaces (including rudder, elevators and ailerons), aerodynamic fairings, engine cowlings and landing gear doors for a weight savings of 1,100 pounds (500 kilograms).
• Another 650 pounds (295 kilograms) of weight savings is attributable to carbon brakes, which have the added advantage of longer service life than conventional steel brakes.