asked the Minister for Transport and Power when Aer Lingus will take delivery of jumbo jets; the original cost quoted for these aircraft; and what the final cost will be at date of delivery.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Jumbo Jets.
11.
Delivery of the two Boeing 747 aircraft which Aerlínte have ordered is expected in time to commence services in the summer of 1971. The basic price of the two aircraft, including engines, was originally quoted at £14.2 million. Because of devaluation and price increases in the United States, the cost at delivery will now be £16.8 million. These figures do not include the cost of interior furnishings, spare engines, general spares and ground support equipment which have not yet been finally determined.
12.
asked the Minister for Transport and Power what steps, if any, are being taken to minimise the noise which will result from the operation of jumbo jets over Ireland.
13.
asked the Minister for Transport and Power what details, if any, are available about the extent of the noise from jumbo jets compared with that of conventional jet aircraft.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 12 and 13 together.
The Boeing 747 aircraft is a conventional jet aircraft but of much increased size.
The Boeing Aircraft Corporation claim that on account of its good take-off characteristics and improved engines the new aircraft will operate at considerably lower noise levels than present jet aircraft. If this should prove to be the case, special noise abatement procedures will not be necessary.
It will not be possible to make a precise comparison between the noise of present day jet aircraft and the noise of the Boeing 747 aircraft until the latter has made its first flight, which is expected to be in December of this year.