Singapore Airlines appears to be moving toward an order for 777-200LRs that may replace A340-500s on its Los-Angeles-Singapore and New York-Singapore routes. According to airline sources, A340-500 pilots were briefed recently on the ultra-long operations status and "they were told that a 777-200LR order is likely." Boeing recently released new performance data for the type, which will roll out early next year and enter service in 2006. The aircraft will be capable of flying between Singapore and New York with 301 passengers and 18,000 lb. of cargo and returning with 301 passengers and 16,000 lb. of cargo. The dramatic hike in performance is the result of flight-test and commercial-service experience for the 777-300ER, which has bettered fuel-burn performance guarantees. However, the range figures do not include the latest data revealed by Japan Airlines and Air France to this website of a further improvement of 0.8% in fuel burn (ATWOnline, Nov. 1). SIA recently ordered/optioned up to 31 777-300ERs to replace some elements of its 747-400 fleet. To date, Boeing has announced orders for only five 777-200LRs.