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These 'Split Scimitar' Wing Attachments Could Save Southwest Nearly $14 Million In Fuel Costs

Jan 3, 2014, 02:33 IST

United Airlines

Southwest Airlines has ordered split scimitar winglets for 85 of its planes, a move that could save it nearly $14 million annually.

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The sword-like attachments, made by Boeing, cut drag and improve aerodynamics.

They represent a step up over blended winglets, thanks to "new strengthened spars, aerodynamic scimitar tips, and a large ventral strake."

52 Boeing 737-800s will be retrofitted with the scimitar winglets. The system will be included on 33 more 737-800s that should be delivered in 2014.

Southwest says they will cut fuel use by 5%, a 2% improvement over what blended winglets offered. An Aviation Partners Boeing representative estimated Southwest will save more than 55,000 gallons of jet fuel per plane, per year.

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Based on December jet fuel prices in North America provided by the International Air Transport, that adds up to $13,852,025 annually.

According to the latest numbers from the DOT's Bureau of Transportation Statistics, Southwest posted an operating profit of $984 million in 2013. Another $14 million won't make a huge difference, but it's more than a drop in the bucket.

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