Boeing's 787 launch puts a new spin on the term 'fashionably late.' Expected to arrive nearly two years ago, officials at Boeing say the 787 Dreamliner will fly later this quarter.
According to a press release issued by Boeing, the first Dreamliner has moved to the flight line and fuel testing will begin in the next few days.
Over the past few weeks, the 787 went through a series of tests including various stress tests on the plane's structure, internal systems, and landing gear. These three tests are all part of a full flight simulation test, which helps engineers determine any need for changes or adjustments.
"These results give us confidence in our ability to move into further gauntlet testing using either ground power or the airplane's engines or auxiliary power unit. This is a significant milestone on the path to first flight," said Scott Fancher, vice president and general manager of the 787 Dreamliner program.
The 787 Dreamliner has three planes in its family, which carry anywhere from 200-300 passengers.
— The 787-8 Dreamliner will carry 210 – 250 passengers on routes of 7,650 to 8,200 nautical miles.
— The 787-9 Dreamliner will carry 250 – 290 passengers on routes of 8,000 to 8,500 nautical miles.
— The 787-3 Dreamliner will carry 290 – 330 passengers and fly routes of 2,500 to 3,050 nautical miles.
According to the Boeing Web site, the 787's will fly with improved fuel efficiency, helping to offset carbon omissions during flight. The airplane will use 20 percent less fuel for similar flights than today's airplanes. Boeing says passengers will see improvements with the 787s including more space and better in-flight air quality and circulation.
The Dreamliner was supposed to take flight in September 2007 and All Nippon Airways, an Asia-based airline offering flights to North America, was scheduled to take delivery of the first 787 in May 2008. The airline is now scheduled to take delivery of their first plane in 2010.
Boeing says the 787 Dreamliner has orders for 886 airplanes from 57 customers.
© Cheapflights Ltd Melanie Nayer
