Boeing Delays Debut of Longer-Range 777 Jet

Boeing Co. said it has pushed back development of a longer-range version of its 777 wide-body jet by 18 months, citing slow sales. Chicago-based Boeing now plans to deliver the first 777-200LR, which it says will fly farther than any jetliner in the skies, in July 2005 instead of early 2004.

“They still plan on building the airplane, and they are marketing it to a number of other airlines,” said spokeswoman Debbie Heathers at Boeing’s plant in Everett, Wash.

To date, Boeing has booked only one order for three 777-200LRs to Taiwan’s EVA Airways, and those jets are not slated for delivery until May 2006, meaning the launch date could get pushed back again.

Boeing shares fell 63 cents to $35.27 on the NYSE.