Boeing redesigns 737-800 jets

CHICAGO, April 29 (UPI) -- The 2010 and 2011 model 737-800 Boeing jets will be roomier, more fuel efficient and include mood lighting, the U.S. airplane maker said.

Extracting design improvements from the 787 Dreamliner, which is nearing its inaugural flight, Boeing said the newer 737-800 jets would include improved engine performance and reduced drag, gaining 2 percent in fuel efficiency by 2011, the Chicago Tribune reported Wednesday.

Earlier models -- those delivered in 2010 -- will have larger overhead luggage compartments, sculpted interior walls and mood lighting, Boeing said.

In part, Boeing is reacting to competition from Canada's Bombardier Inc., which is producing a comparable C-series aircraft.

Airlines are looking for better than 2 percent mileage improvements. However, aerospace analyst Paul Nisbet of JSA Research said Boeing was attempting to "keep a little bit ahead, if they can, of Airbus and the A320."

"This should keep things going until they have time to assess the C-series and whether that's going to change anything," he said.