Norwegian and Virgin Atlantic pilots to cooperate on the Boeing 787 training and long-haul expertise, will expand in Germany
Norwegian Long Haul (Norwegian Air Shuttle) (Oslo) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Virgin Atlantic Airways (London). The agreement enables Norwegian to tap into Virgin Atlantic’s expertise on long-haul operations, while Virgin Atlantic’s instructors will receive pilot training on board Norwegian’s brand new 787-8 Dreamliner. Norwegian’s first Dreamliner is due for delivery at the end of June.
The cooperation with Virgin Atlantic will enable Norwegian’s long-haul pilots to make use of the airline’s vast long-haul experience. Virgin Atlantic will make all its training material available to Norwegian.
Virgin Atlantic’s pilots to train on board Norwegian’s 787 Dreamliner
At the same time, Virgin Atlantic’s 787 instructors will conduct the final part of their pilot training on board Norwegian’s Dreamliners. Virgin Atlantic’s most experienced instructors will continue flying on board Norwegian’s aircraft until the airline receives its first 787 Dreamliner in September 2014, just over a year after Norwegian’s first Dreamliner delivery.
“Introducing a new aircraft type to an airline is an extensive affair. It is therefore important that we learn from each other,” says Director of Flight Operations Norwegian Long Haul, Torstein Hoås.
A great advantage to both parties
“Virgin Atlantic is a successful long-haul airline with almost 30 years of Trans-Atlantic experience. It will be very beneficial for us to receive this support. At the same time, we are looking forward to helping Virgin Atlantic introduce the 787 Dreamliner to its fleet. The cooperation will be a great advantage to both parties,” he continues.
Virgin Atlantic will be the launch customer in Europe of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, a slightly bigger version of the 787-8 Dreamliner. In the agreement signed on Friday, Virgin Atlantic states that it will train a number of Norwegian pilots on board its future Dreamliners.
“Virgin Atlantic are delighted to announce our training partnership with Norwegian. Our combined experience is being effectively utilised to ensure the safe and efficient introduction of the Boeing 787 aircraft to our fleet. We have much in common with Norwegian, having similar high quality training requirements, which has allowed our partnership to take shape,” says Captain Dave Kistruck, GM of Flight Operations for Virgin Atlantic.
In other news, Norwegian is expanding in the Germany-Spain market. The company has issued this statement:
Norwegian Air Shuttle continues its European expansion. The company has announced that it will launch new routes from Hamburg, Cologne and Munich to several Spanish destinations this autumn.
“The expansion in the German market is part of our future strategy to expand our presence outside of the Nordic region in order to meet the strong competition in the airline industry. We see that Germans frequently choose Norwegian when flying to Scandinavia and we believe that there is a demand for a quality airline that offers inexpensive fares between Germany and Spain. We are looking forward to welcoming passengers on board our modern and more eco-friendly aircraft,” said CEO of Norwegian Bjørn Kjos.
From the end of October, Norwegian launches brand new routes between Germany and Spain and will fly to Malaga, Alicante, Gran Canaria and Tenerife from Hamburg and Cologne. From Munich, Norwegian will offer flights to Malaga, Alicante and Tenerife.
Strong expansion
Norwegian is Europe’s third largest low-fare airline. As one of the fastest growing airlines in Europe, it is establishing itself outside of the Nordic region by opening bases in the UK and Spain. At the end of the month, Norwegian will, as the first European low-fare airline, commence long-haul flights to the US and Asia.
From Hamburg
Hamburg-Malaga (November 1), 3 weekly flights, from EUR 29,- one way
Hamburg-Alicante (November 1), 3 weekly flights, from EUR 29,- one way
Hamburg-Gran Canaria (October 27), 2 weekly flights, from EUR 49,- one way
Hamburg-Tenerife (October 27), 2 weekly flights, from EUR 49,- one way
From Cologne
Cologne-Malaga (October 31), 3 weekly flights, from EUR 29,- one way
Cologne-Alicante (November 1), 2 weekly flights, from EUR 29,- one way
Cologne-Gran Canaria (October 28), 2 weekly flights, from EUR 49,- one way
Cologne-Tenerife (October 28), 2 weekly flights, from EUR 49,- one way
From Munich
Munich-Malaga (November 1), 2 weekly flights, from EUR 39,- one way
Munich-Alicante (October 31), 2 weekly flights, from EUR 39,- one way
Munich-Tenerife (October 29), 2 weekly flights, from EUR 59,- one way
Copyright Photo: Norwegian Air Shuttle.
Norwegian: 
Virgin Atlantic: 
Norwegian to fly nonstop Oslo-Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood flights
Norwegian Air Shuttle (Norwegian.com) (Oslo) is set to launch a new route linking its Oslo (Gardermoen) home and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport on November 30 with Boeing 787-8s. This will become the third long-distance route after New York (JFK) and Bangkok from Oslo.
Norwegian will fly twice weekly between Oslo Gardermoen (OSL) and Fort Lauderdale (FLL) on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Departure from OSL will be at 1510 (3:10 pm), arriving at FLL at 1930 (7:30 pm) local time.
Departure from FLL will be on Mondays and Fridays at 2130 (9:30 pm), arriving at OSL at 1235 (12:35 pm) the next day.
Copyright Photos: Norwegian. The first Boeing 787-8 is being prepared at Paine Field at Everett and will be named for Sonja Henie.
Norwegian:
Boeing test flies a 787 with new lithium-ion battery system
787 Takes Off for Functional Test Flight, originally uploaded by The Boeing Company.
Boeing (Chicago) yesterday (March 25) test flew a 787-8 with the new lithium-ion battery system. The two-hour test flight was conducted from Paine Field near Everett, Washington.
According to Reuters, the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has set a two-day forum for April 11-12 to examine the design and performance of lithium-ion batteries. The NTSB also plans to hold a separate hearing on the 787 battery later in April.
Read the full article: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Boeing. The pictured 787-8 SP-LRC (msn 35980) destined for LOT Polish Airlines was the test aircraft.
NTSB “very concerned”, 787 battery fire investigation continues, 787s remain grounded
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) (Washington) investigation of the battery fire on board a Boeing 787-8 of JAL-Japan Airlines (Tokyo) at Boston continues.
Deborah Hersman, chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board briefed the media yesterday (January 24) and according to this report by Reuters made it clear that “investigators have found a series of “symptoms” in the battery damaged in a January 7 fire in Boston, but not the underlying cause of the problem. She also said the agency would be looking at the design of the battery compartment area of the plane and whether the certification standards had been strong enough.”
“This is an unprecedented event. We are very concerned. We do not expect to see fire events on board aircraft. This is a very serious air safety concern.” as stated by Hersman.
According to Reuters, “Hersman, talking to reporters after the news conference, confirmed that there is no fire suppression system in the area where the battery burned, nor any way to access it in-flight.”
Bottom line: the 787 could be grounded for a while. Fires on board aircraft should not be happening and this statement now raises concerns about the FAA certification process of the aircraft.
Meanwhile Boeing issued this statement:
Boeing (Chicago) welcomes the progress being made in the 787 investigation discussed today by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) in Washington, D.C. The regulatory and investigative agencies in the U.S. and Japan have dedicated substantial resources to these investigations, and we appreciate their effort and leadership.
Boeing continues to assist the NTSB and the other government agencies in the U.S. and Japan responsible for investigating two recent 787 incidents. The company has formed teams consisting of hundreds of engineering and technical experts who are working around the clock with the sole focus of resolving the issue and returning the 787 fleet to flight status. We are working this issue tirelessly in cooperation with our customers and the appropriate regulatory and investigative authorities. The safety of passengers and crew members who fly aboard Boeing airplanes is our highest priority.
In order to ensure the integrity of the process and in adherence to international protocols that govern safety investigations, we are not permitted to comment directly on the ongoing investigations. Boeing is eager to see both investigative groups continue their work and determine the cause of these events, and we support their thorough resolution.
Boeing deeply regrets the impact that recent events have had on the operating schedules of our customers and their passengers.
Read the full report: CLICK HERE
Excess voltage of the 787 batteries is ruled out as the cause of the Boston JAL fire, NTSB now looking at the APU
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) (Washington) has ruled out excess voltage as the cause of a battery fire this month on a Boeing 787 operated by Japan Airlines (Tokyo) according to Reuters (see reports below) and said they were expanding the probe to look at the battery’s charger and the jet’s auxiliary power unit.
According to the report, investigators will convene in Tucson, Arizona today to test and examine the charger for the battery, and download non-volatile memory from the APU controller, with similar tests planned at the Phoenix facility where the APUs are built.
Read the full report: CLICK HERE
On January 14 the NTSB issued this preliminary report:
The National Transportation Safety Board today released a second update on its investigation into the Jan. 7 fire aboard a Japan Airlines Boeing 787 at Logan International Airport in Boston.
The lithium-ion battery that powered the auxiliary power unit on the airplane was removed and transported back to the NTSB Materials Laboratory in Washington on Jan. 10. The battery is currently being examined by NTSB investigators, who plan to disassemble it this week.
| Click for Larger Image | |
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| NTSB photos of the burned auxiliary power unit battery from a JAL Boeing 787 that caught fire on Jan. 7 at Boston’s Logan International Airport. The dimensions of the battery are 19×13.2×10.2 inches and it weighs approximately 63 pounds (new). | |
In advance of that work, under the direction of the NTSB, radiographic examinations of the incident battery and an exemplar battery were conducted this past weekend at an independent test facility. The digital radiographs and computed tomography scans generated from this examination allowed the team to document the internal condition of the battery prior to disassembling it.
In addition, investigators took possession of burned wire bundles, the APU battery charger, and several memory modules. The maintenance and APU controller memory modules will be downloaded to obtain any available data. Investigators also documented the entire aft electronics bay including the APU battery and the nearby affected structure where components and wire bundles were located. The airplane was released back to Japan Airlines on Jan. 10.
The airplane’s two combined flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder units were transported to NTSB headquarters and have been successfully downloaded. The information is currently being analyzed by the investigative team.
The airport emergency response group documented the airport rescue and firefighting efforts to extinguish the fire, which included interviews with first responders. Fire and rescue personnel were able to contain the fire using a clean agent (Halotron), however, they reported experiencing difficulty accessing the battery for removal during extinguishing efforts. All fire and rescue personnel responding to the incident had previously received aircraft familiarization training on the Boeing 787. In accordance with international investigative treaties, the Japan Transport Safety Board and French Bureau d’Enquêtes et d’Analyses pour la sécurité de l’aviation civile have appointed accredited representatives to the investigation. The NTSB-led investigative team is comprised of subject matter groups in the areas of airplane systems, fire, airport emergency response, and data recorders and includes experts from the Federal Aviation Administration, The Boeing Company, US Naval Surface Warfare Center’s Carderock Division, Japan Airlines (aircraft operator), GS Yuasa (battery manufacturer), and Thales Avionics Electrical Systems (APU battery/charger system).
On January 20 the NTSB issued this on-going report:
The National Transportation Safety Board today released a third update on its investigation into the Jan. 7 fire aboard a Japan Airlines Boeing 787 at Logan International Airport in Boston.
The lithium-ion battery that powered the auxiliary power unit has been examined in the NTSB Materials Laboratory in Washington. The battery was x-rayed and CT scans were generated of the assembled battery. The investigative team has disassembled the APU battery into its eight individual cells for detailed examination and documentation. Three of the cells were selected for more detailed radiographic examination to view the interior of the cells prior to their disassembly. These cells are in the process now of being disassembled and the cell’s internal components are being examined and documented.
Investigators have also examined several other components removed from the airplane, including wire bundles and battery management circuit boards. The team has developed test plans for the various components removed from the aircraft, including the battery management unit (for the APU battery), the APU controller, the battery charger and the start power unit. On Tuesday, the group will convene in Arizona to test and examine the battery charger and download nonvolatile memory from the APU controller. Several other components have been sent for download or examination to Boeing’s facility in Seattle and manufacturer’s facilities in Japan.
Finally, examination of the flight recorder data from the JAL B-787 airplane indicate that the APU battery did not exceed its designed voltage of 32 volts.
In accordance with international investigative treaties, the Japan Transport Safety Board and French Bureau d’Enquêtes et d’Analyses pour la sécurité de l’aviation civile have appointed accredited representatives to this investigation. Similarly, the NTSB has assigned an accredited representative to assist with the JTSB’s investigation of the Jan. 15 battery incident involving an All Nippon Airways B-787. Both investigations remain ongoing.
The FAA grounds the Boeing 787 due to battery issues
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) (Washington) has grounded all N-numbered Boeing 787s (United Airlines is the only U.S. operator) due to the on-going problems with the batteries. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration issued an emergency airworthiness directive that requires U.S. 787 operators to temporarily cease operations. According to this report by Reuters, “the FAA said airlines would have to demonstrate that the batteries involved were safe before they could resume flying, but gave no details on when that could occur.”
Read the full report: CLICK HERE
Boeing issued the following statement:
Boeing Chairman, President and CEO Jim McNerney issued the following statement after the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an emergency airworthiness directive that requires U.S. 787 operators to temporarily cease operations and recommends other regulatory agencies to follow suit:
“The safety of passengers and crew members who fly aboard Boeing airplanes is our highest priority.
“Boeing is committed to supporting the FAA and finding answers as quickly as possible. The company is working around the clock with its customers and the various regulatory and investigative authorities. We will make available the entire resources of The Boeing Company to assist.
“We are confident the 787 is safe and we stand behind its overall integrity. We will be taking every necessary step in the coming days to assure our customers and the traveling public of the 787′s safety and to return the airplanes to service.
“Boeing deeply regrets the impact that recent events have had on the operating schedules of our customers and the inconvenience to them and their passengers.”
This is the major issue for Boeing and its 787 customers. It also raises questions about the FAA certification process.
Here is a list of how other countries and operators are reacting:
EASA (Europe) will follow the FAA and ground the aircraft according to Reuters: CLICK HERE
Japan has grounded the 787s of ANA and JAL (who had already grounded their fleets): CLICK HERE. JAL is also canceling the new Tokyo-San Diego route.
LAN Airlines grounded its three 787-8s: CLICK HERE
Qatar Airways has grounded its five 787-8s. Read the report by Reuters: CLICK HERE
United Airlines grounded its 787-8s and substituted other aircraft for the 787 flights or rebooked its customers.
Meanwhile LOT Polish Airlines (Warsaw) wins the “worst timing award” for its press release and the Chicago O’Hare inaugural flight. Right before the FAA grounded the aircraft, the Polish airline issued the following announcement:
LOT Polish Airlines will inaugurate new 787 Dreamliner nonstop service from Chicago to Warsaw on Wednesday, January 16, and make aviation history as the first airline with scheduled Dreamliner service from Chicago’s O’Hare Airport.
LOT is the first European carrier to operate the Dreamliner with a total of eight aircraft to be in their fleet. LOT’s Dreamliner inaugural flight from Chicago to Warsaw is followed closely by Toronto on February 1 and New York’s JFK on February 3.
LOT’s inbound Dreamliner special flight from Warsaw is scheduled to touch down at Chicago’s O’Hare airport at 6:55 p.m. The Dreamliner trip from Chicago will depart at 9:55 p.m., and arrive the next day in Warsaw at 1:50 p.m. Typically the flight will depart Warsaw at 5:25 p.m. and arrives in Chicago at 9:20 a.m. the same day. The flights were previously operated with Boeing 767s.
LOT’s Dreamliner has 18 seats in Elite Club (business class), 21 in Premium Club (premium economy) plus 213 seats in economy class.
In preparation for the Dreamliner flights, LOT has implemented a new design inspired by traditional and famous symbols of Poland. This design is reflected in the new aircraft interiors, inflight menus with its new selection of beverages, on-board equipment, toys for children and other amenities. The quality of service offered is an additional asset with specially trained Elite Fleet cabin crews, new comfortable classes of service-Elite Club and Premium Club- as well as the unique product on board the aircraft.
January 16, 2013 will probably go down in history as the darkest day for the Boeing Aircraft Company. William E. Boeing is probably rolling in his grave.
Copyright Photo: Antony J. Best. Boeing 787-8 SP-LRA (msn 35938) lands at London (Heathrow) prior to the grounding.
LOT Polish Airlines: 
A fire breaks out in the battery compartment of a Japan Airlines’ 787 on the ground at Boston’s Logan Airport
Japan Airlines-JAL‘s (Tokyo) flight JL 8 with a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner (JA829J) arrived from Tokyo (Narita) at Boston (Logan) this morning at 10 a.m. (1000). The 173 arriving passengers and 11 crew members had just disembarked according to this report by the Boston Globe. The cleaners who boarded the aircraft reported smelling smoke and a fire was discovered in the lower level battery compartment. The airport ARFF units put out the fire out before it could spread.
Boeing has been investigating electrical issues on other 787 Dreamliners and has issued the following statement:
Regarding Monday’s event onboard a Japan Airlines (JAL) 787 at Boston Logan Airport, we are working closely with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), our customer and other government agencies. JAL has reported that smoke detected while a 787 was on the ground after passengers disembarked and during cleaning was traced to the battery used to start the auxiliary power unit (APU).
As is standard practice within the industry, it would be premature to discuss additional details at this stage as the investigation is ongoing. However, nothing that we’ve seen in this case indicates a relationship to any previous 787 power system events, which involved power panel faults elsewhere in the aft electrical equipment bay. Information about the prior events has been shared with the NTSB and they are aware of the details.
Boeing is cooperating with the NTSB in the investigation of this incident. Before providing more detail, we will give our technical teams the time they need to do a thorough job and ensure we are dealing with facts, not speculation.
Read the full report: CLICK HERE
Video:
Japan Airlines-JAL: 
United Airlines launches its first international Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner service today
United Airlines (Chicago) today (January 3) will introduce daily nonstop Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner service between its hub at Los Angeles International Airport and its hub at Tokyo Narita International Airport. The service – previously operated with a Boeing 777 aircraft – is the first regularly-scheduled international route operated using United’s new 787 Dreamliner.
The flight, UA 32, will depart Los Angeles at 11:15 a.m. (1115), arriving in Tokyo Narita at 4:10 p.m. (1610) the next day. The return flight, UA 33, will depart Tokyo Narita daily at 5:55 p.m. (1755), arriving in Los Angeles at 10:35 a.m. (1035) the same day.
United’s 787 Dreamliner is configured with 36 seats in United BusinessFirst, 70 seats in United Economy Plus and 113 seats in United Economy. The aircraft will revolutionize the flying experience for United customers and crews while delivering unprecedented operating efficiency, comfort and lower emissions. Customers on the flights will experience greater comfort with improved lighting, bigger windows, larger overhead bins, lower cabin altitude and enhanced ventilation systems, among other passenger-friendly features.
Yesterday (January 2) LAN Airlines (Santiago) introduced the Boeing 787-8 on the Santiago-Los Angeles route.
Copyright Photo: United Airlines. The first, Boeing 787-8 N20904 (msn 34824) poses for publicity photos.
United Airlines:
British Airways unveils seating plans for its new Airbus A380s and Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners, will take delivery of more Boeing 777-300 ERs
British Airways (London) has announced the seating plans for its new Airbus A380 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft on order. The company issued this statement:
With the first of the airline’s new long-haul aircraft only six months away from delivery, British Airways has announced the cabin design and layout for its Boeing 787 and Airbus A380 aircraft.
Two hundred and fourteen customers will enjoy the comforts of the new British Airways 787 Dreamliner and the A380 will be the largest aircraft in the British Airways fleet, with 469 customers.
The 24 Dreamliners and 12 A380s will feature the elegant cabin designs fitted on British Airways’ new Boeing 777-300 ER aircraft, which have proved hugely popular with customers.
All eight 787-8s will feature a new Club World 2:3:2 layout, the latest generation World Traveller and World Traveller Plus seats. In addition, the new A380 will also have an enhanced version of First. The exact seating plans of another 16 787-9s on order have yet to be finalized, they could have three or four-cabin configurations.
British Airways is set to be the first European airline to operate both new aircraft types, with its first Dreamliner arriving in May 2013 and A380 deliveries starting in July 2013.
The British Airways Dreamliner will have 35 seats for customers in the new Club World triple configuration of 2:3:2; 25 seats in a World Traveller Plus layout of 2:3:2; and a further 154 seats for those travelling in World Traveller, with a 3:3:3 configuration.
On the British Airways A380 there will be 14 seats in First on the main deck, with extra personal and stowage space; the Club World cabin will feature 44 seats in a 2:4:2 configuration; and there will be 199 seats in World Traveller, with a 3:4:3 layout.
The A380 upper deck will feature 53 seats in the new Club World triple configuration of 2:3:2; 55 seats in a 2:3:2 World Traveller Plus layout; and World Traveller will have 104 seats in a 2:4:2 configuration.
Both new aircraft will also feature the airline’s latest Thales inflight entertainment system, which offers customers 50 percent more movies, 200 percent more TV shows and 200 percent more audio programs and music*.
Customers will also benefit from new larger screens in all cabins and an easier to use system with shortcut buttons. They will also be able to connect personal devices, such as laptops and use the in-seat power available for the first time in all cabins.
In 2013, British Airways will take delivery of nine new longhaul aircraft. The first British Airways Dreamliner will be delivered in May 2013. A further three will arrive by the end of the year. The first A380 will be delivered in July, with additional deliveries in August and October. Two additional 777-300 ERs will arrive in September and October 2013.
British Airways will announce the routes the new aircraft will operate in Spring 2013.
* Compared with the Rockwell Collins audio video on-demand system deployed on British Airways fleet of Boeing 747s, 767 longhaul aircraft and most Boeing 777-200s.
Copyright Photo: Ton Jochems. More stretched Boeing 777-300 ERs will be joining the fleet. Boeing 777-36N ER G-STBC (msn 38287) arrives at the London Heathrow hub.
British Airways: 
Thomson Airways to introduce the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner on May 1 to Sanford and Cancun
Thomson Airways (London-Luton) is planning to introduce the new Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner on May 1, 2013 on the East Midlands-Cancun and London (Gatwick)-Sanford (near Orlando) routes subject to change.
Here is the complete introduction schedule: CLICK HERE
Image: Thomson Airways.
Thomson Airways: 
Boeing delivers the first South Carolina-built 787 Dreamliner to Air India
Boeing (Chicago) yesterday (October 5) marked a historic milestone with delivery of the first 787 Dreamliner built at its North Charleston, South Carolina, facility to Air India (Mumbai).
According to Boeing, “the delivery continues the momentum of the 787 Dreamliner’s entry into revenue service by customers globally and marks the beginning of a new era of commercial airplane production in South Carolina.”
Work on the Boeing South Carolina Final Assembly and Delivery Center began in November 2009. Production of the first South Carolina-built 787 began in mid-2011 and the completed airplane rolled out of the factory in April.
Boeing South Carolina fabricates, integrates and assembles the midbody and aftbody fuselage sections for all 787 Dreamliners. Completed sections are joined in South Carolina Final Assembly, or transported via the Dreamlifter to 787 Final Assembly in Everett, Washington.
This delivery marks the 28th 787 Dreamliner delivered to date. Boeing South Carolina will increase final assembly production to three 787s per month by the end of 2013.
Air India is introducing the Dreamliner on the Delhi-Chennai, Delhi-Bangalore and Delhi-Kolkata domestic routes before its international debut.
Air India: 
ANA brings the first Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner on revenue service to Seattle/Tacoma
ANA (All Nippon Airways) (Tokyo) yesterday (October 1) operated the first revenue flight into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. The pictured Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner JA814A (msn 34493) resting at SEA made the historic flight on the Tokyo (Narita)-SEA route. However a problem with the onboard air conditioning system forced the 24-hour cancellation and delay of the return segment. Boeing replaced the faulty system with another system while the airliner was parked overnight at SEA.
Read the full report from The Seattle Times: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Dan Cowdin. The pictured 787-8 JA814A was handed over to ANA on September 24, 2012.
ANA:
Thomson Airways’ new TV ad features the upcoming Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner
Thomson Airways (London-Luton) has introduced this new TV advertisement featuring the new Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. The holiday airline has 13 copies on order for deliveries starting next year.
Image: Thomson Airways.
Video:
LOT Polish Airlines announces the first Boeing 787-8 routes
LOT Polish Airlines (Warsaw) today officially announced the launch dates for its new Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner intercontinental service. The inaugural flight from Warsaw to Chicago (O’Hare) will be on January 16, 2013, followed closely by Toronto (Pearson) on February 1 and New York (JFK) on February 3. Beijing will begin one month later on March 3, 2013.
LOT is offering three classes of service on the new aircraft, Economy Class, Premium Club (Premium Economy) and Elite Club (Business Class). All three classes will enjoy comfort beyond their expectations as well as the professional and friendly service of the Elite Fleet Crew.
With the introduction of a new class, Premium Economy, which will be referred to as Premium Club, LOT has fares starting as low as $1,342 from New York and Chicago to Warsaw. LOT’s new Business Class, referred to as Elite Club, have fares starting as low as $3,787 from New York to Warsaw and $4,087 from Chicago to Warsaw. Sample fares include all taxes fees and surcharges.
In addition, according to Airline Route, from December 2012 to January 2013 (subject to aircraft deliveries), LOT will introduce the new Boeing 787-8 on select European cities prior to the above regular long-range schedule. The Star Alliance member is also planning to retire its Boeing 767-300s by March 2013.
Image: LOT Polish Airlines.
LOT Polish Airlines:
United announces a series of domestic Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner flights
United Airlines (Chicago) has announced plans to fly its new Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft on domestic routes starting in November as it prepares to begin previously-announced international service in December and January.
United expects to take delivery of the first five new Dreamliners this year from its total order for 50 of these aircraft. As the initial aircraft are inducted into the fleet, they will be based at United’s Houston hub and will enter into service according to the following schedule:
| Late September | 1st 787 delivery |
| October | Proving/validation flights and training activities that allow United to meet FAA certification requirements and prepare United to become the first North American operator for this new aircraft type. 2nd 787 delivery. |
| November | Scheduled commercial flights from Houston to other U.S. hubs. 3rd and 4th 787 deliveries expected. |
| December | Scheduled commercial flights from Houston to other U.S. hubs. 5th 787 delivery expected. First international service Dec. 4. |
| January | Commencement of scheduled commercial flights on additional international routes as announced on Aug. 23. |
United will phase in scheduled 787-8 service between Houston and each of its other domestic hubs beginning on November 4, 2012 as shown below. This schedule allows United’s 787s to operate more than 470 flight segments in the U.S. in the last two months of 2012 in addition to international flights beginning in early December:
| Route | Flight times | Effective Date | End Date | Frequency |
| IAH-SFO-IAH | 5:45 p.m. westbound
12:15 a.m. eastbound |
Nov. 4, 2012 | Dec. 2, 2012 | 5 x weekly |
| IAH-LAX-IAH | 3:30 p.m. westbound 6:25 p.m. eastbound |
Nov. 4, 2012 | Dec. 3, 2012 | 6 x weekly |
| IAH-ORD-IAH | 7:25 a.m. northbound
11:15 a.m. southbound |
Nov. 4, 2012 | Dec. 3, 2012 | 6 x weekly |
| IAH-EWR-IAH | 8 a.m. northbound
3:30 p.m. southbound |
Nov. 4, 2012 | Jan. 3, 2013 | Daily, except Nov. 18 |
| IAH-CLE-IAH | 7 a.m. northbound 4 p.m. southbound |
Nov. 10, 2012 | Nov. 10, 2012 | One-day service |
| IAH-IAD-IAH | 7 a.m. northbound 3:50 p.m. southbound |
Nov. 17, 2012 | Nov. 17, 2012 | One-day service |
| IAH-SFO-IAH | 5:45 p.m. westbound
12:15 a.m. eastbound |
Dec. 3, 2012 | Jan. 3, 2013 | Daily |
| IAH-LAX-IAH | 3:30 p.m. westbound 6:25 p.m. eastbound |
Dec. 4, 2012 | Jan. 3, 2013 | Daily |
| IAH-DEN-IAH | 7:20 a.m. westbound 10:15 a.m. eastbound |
Dec. 5, 2012 | Jan. 2, 2013 | Daily |
| IAH-LAX-IAH | 7:35 a.m. westbound 12:30 p.m. eastbound |
Jan. 3, 2013 | March 31, 2013 | Daily |
| IAH-ORD-IAH | 7:25 a.m. northbound
11:15 a.m. southbound |
Jan. 4, 2013 | March 29, 2013 | Daily |
| IAH-DEN-IAH | 9:15 a.m. westbound 2:15 p.m. eastbound |
March 31, 2013 | Open | Daily |
Note: Timing may vary slightly depending on day of the week. Schedules are subject to change.
The 787-8 aircraft will display for sale for these domestic routes on united.com and other distribution channels beginning September 1. In October, United will announce plans for the official first commercial 787 flights, which are expected to occur prior to November 4 but only after proving/validation flights and training are complete.
Copyright Photo: Jay Selman. Boeing 787-8 N20904 (msn 34824) is the first United Dreamliner, pictured being prepared for delivery at the Boeing assembly factory at Everett, WA. With the 787 Boeing has dropped its long-running customer codes. Many sites are still reporting this as a “787-822″ but this is not correct.
United Airlines Slide Show: 
United announces its first international routes for the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner
United Airlines (Chicago) has announced the first international routes for the airline’s newest addition to its fleet, the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. In addition to the previously-announced service from its Denver hub to Tokyo Narita, starting on March 31, 2013, the airline will operate nonstop 787 service five days a week between its Houston (Bush Intercontinental) hub and Lagos, Nigeria, beginning on January 7, 2013. United will also operate daily, nonstop 787 service between its Los Angeles hub and its Tokyo Narita hub, beginning on January 3, 2013, and Los Angeles to Shanghai, beginning on March 30, 2013.
United will also operate daily, nonstop 787 service from its Houston hub to Amsterdam and London Heathrow on a temporary basis. Houston to Amsterdam service begins on December 4, 2012, and Houston to London Heathrow service begins on February 4, 2013.
The 787 aircraft will display for sale for these routes on united.com and other distribution channels beginning on August 25, while Denver to Narita service is available for sale now. In the near future, United will announce plans for initial domestic flying for the 787, which will precede the launch of international flights described above.
Configured with 36 seats in United BusinessFirst, 72 seats in United Economy Plus and 111 seats in United Economy, the Dreamliner will revolutionize the flying experience for United customers and crews while delivering unprecedented operating efficiency, comfort and lower emissions. Customers will experience greater comfort with improved lighting, bigger windows, larger overhead bins, lower cabin altitude and enhanced ventilation systems, among other passenger-friendly features.
Copyright Photo: United Airlines. Boeing 787-8 N20904 (msn 34824) is pictured being prepared for delivery at the Boeing facility in Everett (Paine Field).
United Airlines Slide Show: 
United’s Boeing 787-8 N20904 has a successful first flight
United Airlines‘ (Chicago) first Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner (N20904) completed its first production flight on Sunday (August 19) as Boeing makes its final preparations for delivering the jetliner to United at the end of September. The aircraft took off from Boeing’s Paine Field in Everett, Washington. Boeing pilots flew the 787-8 around the Seattle area for more than three hours as part of planned tests of the aircraft’s controls and systems.
During the flight, crew members examined the 787′s onboard systems at high and medium altitudes. They also checked backup and safety elements, including cabin pressurization, avionics, navigation and communications systems.
Sunday’s flight was part of a series of work that Boeing performs after each 787 comes out of its paint hangar and before airlines take delivery of the planes. The work also includes fueling, systems tests, engine runs and taxi tests.
Copyright Photo: United Airlines. Boeing has dropped the customer codes with the 787. Hence N20904 (msn 34824) is officially designated as a 787-8.
United: 
Ethiopian Airlines takes delivery and puts its first Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner into service
Ethiopian Airlines (Addis Ababa) on August 14 took delivery of its first Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner dubbed “Africa First” in Seattle. The new airliner ferried to Washington (Dulles) for a special unveiling.
Today (August 16) the pictured Boeing 787-8 ET-AOQ (msn 34745) at Washington (Dulles) is operating a special flight from Washington (Dulles) to Addis Ababa. Regular daily service starts on September 20 on the route after the second Dreamliner is delivered.
The Dreamliner offers passengers greatly enhanced on-board comfort, with significantly reduced noise, higher level of humidity, the biggest windows in the sky and unique lighting system. Ethiopian had previously announced that it would rotate its first Dreamliner, ET-AOQ, primarily on its African routes.
Take a virtual tour of the 787-8: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Brian McDonough. ET-AOQ taxies on arrival at Washington (Dulles). As previously reported, Boeing has dropped all customer codes with the 787. All of the models delivered so far are officially designated as 787-8 Dreamliners.
Ethiopian Airlines: 
Ethiopian Airlines announces its schedule for the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner
Ethiopian Airlines (Addis Ababa) will be the first airline in the world outside of Japan to operate the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The airline has announced the schedule for its first Dreamliner:
“The first Ethiopian Dreamliner will touch down in Addis Ababa at Bole International Airport on August 17, 2012. The first flight of Ethiopian Dreamliner dubbed “The Dream Tour,” will be on August 18, 2012, with a sightseeing flight to Mount Kilimanjaro for around 270 invited guests, consisting of Ministers, Ambassadors, other VIPs, Ethiopian ShebaMiles Gold Members and media.
Thereafter, starting from August 19, 2012, the first Ethiopian Dreamliner will be operating on rotation basis to African destinations such as Kilimanjaro, Mombassa, Harare, Lusaka, Nairobi, Entebbe, Lagos, Johannesburg, Abuja, Malabo, Douala, Lomé, Accra, Maputo, Luanda as well as to Dubai, Mumbai, Rome, London and Frankfurt.”
According to Airline Route, the first regular route for the 787 will be the Addis Ababa-Rome-Washington (Dulles) route starting on September 20 (arriving at IAD on the morning of September 21).
Copyright Photo: Jay Selman. The first Dreamliner, the pictured 787-8 ET-AOQ (msn 34745) is being prepared for handover at Everett (Paine Field).
Ethiopian Airlines: 
LOT Polish Airlines to use MAEL to maintain its eight Boeing 787 Dreamliners
LOT Polish Airlines (Warsaw) has signed an agreement with Monarch Aircraft Engineering Limited (MAEL) to maintain its eight Boeing 787 Dreamliners on order. LOT will receive its first 787-8 in November 2012.
Under the terms of the agreement, MAEL will build a line maintenance base in Warsaw, as well as technically support the new aircraft while flying abroad.
In addition, MAEL will cooperate with Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance) for the provision of spare parts necessary to operate the new Boeing 787 fleet.
Copyright Photo: Wingnut. LOT Polish Airlines’ Boeing 737-45D SP-LLG (msn 28753) now sports a special 2012 London Olympics decal as the official transport for the Polish team.
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LOT Polish Airlines: 
First Looks: An Inside Look at United Airlines’ new Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner
Guest Editor Jay Selman
Guest Editor Jay Selman
I was fortunate enough to attend the media event introducing United‘s first 787-8 on August 2, 2012. With all the hoopla surrounding the 787, I was curious to see if it lived up to all the hype.
This is the first 787 I’ve been up close to, and it is a much larger beast that I first thought. Originally, I had thought it relatively unimpressive, visually. I mean, if the A330 looks like a greyhound and the 777 looks like a mastiff, the 787 looks like a…what? Maybe a 767 crossed with an Embraer 190? Up close, however, it is obviously much larger than a 767, and more graceful. It looks fast just sitting on the ground.
Creature comforts are appropriate with the class of service! United’s Business First and Economy Plus customers can look forward to extremely comfortable cabins. Seating in both cabins is 2-2-2. The Business First seats convert to lie-flat beds that are 6’4”, long enough to accommodate the vast majority of passengers.
The Economy Plus seats do not convert into flat beds, but they look more like Business Class seats than Ecomony.
Economy is…well, Economy! United’s Economy cabin is laid out in 3-3-3 seating with a “777-style” ceiling. The good news is that the overhead bins are HUGE, which will be welcome news to both passengers and gate agents such as myself! LOL.
Boeing took great pains to design the front office with a similar layout to the 777. While the 777 and 787 are two different type certificates, 777 pilots can transition to the 787 with an abridged training program, thanks to the similarity of the flight deck. I found the Heads Up Display interesting, and the pilots were enthusiastic about that. Finally, today’s world being what it is, the aircraft comes with several cameras mounted in the cabin, which allow the pilots to keep an eye on activity, especially who is approaching the flight deck door.
I was told by the United captain onboard that with the 787, Boeing has officially done away with the two-character customer code that has been a Boeing tradition since forever. Therefore, this is not a 787-824 (as the airplane was ordered by Continental), nor a 787-822 (United’s customer code). The data plate shows it as simply a 787-8. Has anyone seen the data plate on the ANA or JAL 787s? I’m curious if they also show 787-8?
The 787 windows have received a lot of press, both for their size and electrochromism-based dimming feature. The windows are, indeed,significantly larger than the windows of any jet airliner flying today, by far. But for someone who remembers flying in Viscounts and even DC-8s, I felt a little bit of a letdown. I guess I was hoping for something that would put my 39″ flat screen to shame! As for replacing good old fashioned window shades with the dim-able windows, I see some advantages, specifically that the flight attendants can adjust the inside lighting of the entire cabin with the touch of a switch. But is it better? I know that ANA has already come to Boeing saying that it does not darken the cabin enough, and I have to agree with them.
The 787 also has two crew rest compartments, located above the main cabin. One compartment is directly opposite the flight deck door for the pilots
and one aft for the flight attendants
What really makes the 787 a game-changer, so I am told, is not what we see, but what passengers will feel, and what the bean-counters see. Boeing claims that the sustained cabin altitude of 6,000 feet and 15 percent humidity (as opposed to 4 percent now standard), will allow passengers to arrive at their destination feeling considerably more refreshed than we currently do. The operating economics of the 787 are also invisible to our eyes, but the bean-counters love it.
So, overall, the 787 looks like it’s going to be a sweet ride. I can’t wait for my first flight on one. I would like to thank the folks at United Airlines and Boeing for their gracious assistance.
All Photos Copyright – Jay Selman/AirlinersGallery.com.
United Airlines Press Release:
“United Airlines on August 2 unveiled its new Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which will revolutionize the flying experience for United customers and crews while delivering unprecedented operating efficiency, comfort and lower emissions. The airline showcased its first 787, fresh out of the paint hangar at Boeing’s Everett, Wash., facility. United is the North American launch customer for the Dreamliner, and expects to take delivery of its first 787 in September. The airline has firm orders for 50 787s, for delivery by 2019.
Primarily built with composite materials, the 787 has 30 percent more range and uses approximately 20 percent less fuel than similarly-sized aircraft, while reducing emissions and noise during takeoffs and landings. With these advantages, the 787 will open up new non-stop destinations that customers would not be able to otherwise reach on United, such as the recently-announced Denver-to-Tokyo service that starts next spring.
The aircraft cabin is configured with 36 seats in United BusinessFirst, 72 seats in United Economy Plus and 111 seats in United Economy. Customers will be more comfortable with improved lighting, bigger windows, larger overhead bins, lower cabin altitude and enhanced ventilation systems, among other features. The 787′s inflight entertainment system features an all-new design that offers more intuitive browsing and more filtering options, giving customers the option of searching for programs by language.
United’s unveiling provided the first look at the aircraft’s interior and customized livery that is exclusive to the fleet, featuring a gold line that wraps the fuselage and swoops from nose to tail. The livery is inspired by the trademark swoop painted on each of Boeing’s aircraft and is being adopted for the United 787 in a tribute to the two companies’ long history of working together.”
United Airlines to host a live webcast of first Boeing 787 Dreamliner roll out
United Airlines (Chicago) tomorrow (July 31) will host a live webcast of its first Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft rolling out of the paint hangar at Boeing’s Everett, Washington, facility. The webcast will stream live at unitedhub.com at 5:30 a.m. (0530) PDT (1230 GMT).
The live stream will provide viewers with a look at the airline’s customized livery that is exclusive to the Dreamliner fleet, featuring a gold line that wraps the fuselage and swoops from nose to tail. The swoop is inspired by the trademark swoop painted on each of Boeing’s aircraft and is being adopted for the United 787 in a tribute to the two companies’ long history of working together. United will take delivery of its first 787 in late September 2012.
To watch the live stream, visit unitedhub.com.
Top Image: United Airlines.
More from United:
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We’re getting closer to the delivery of our first Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft and today we’re giving you a sneak peek at an artist’s renderings of our specially designed livery.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is a revolutionary aircraft, and we’re excited to reveal details of our plans to make it our own. The process, known as induction, gives the 787 the look and feel of United.
Dreamliner delivery details
We’re scheduled to take delivery of our first 787 in September and begin scheduled service in the Fall. The cabin has been installed and is configured as follows:-
36 seats in United BusinessFirst®
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72 seats in United Economy Plus®
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111 seats in United Economy®
United Boeing 787 livery
Our 787 fleet will be painted with the globe livery but will get its own unique twist: the gold line along both sides of the fuselage will feature a special swoop from nose to tail. Our design is inspired by Boeing’s trademarked swoop, and pays tribute to our long history of working together.Design and features
The palette of colors in the cabin stays true to our current brand color scheme, so that you’ll experience the familiar United look and feel once you’re inside the plane. You’ll enjoy a number of travel-enhancing features when you fly including improved lighting, bigger windows with electronic dimmer buttons, more spacious overhead bins, lower cabin altitude (which can alleviate altitude-related symptoms such as headaches and fatigue) and enhanced ventilation systems.Innovative technology makes the 787 more environmentally friendly, economical and efficient to fly. Advances include the use of composite materials, less fuel consumption and a reduction in noise during takeoff and landing. These enhancements make it possible for our customers to fly to new destinations, such as the recently-announced Denver-to-Tokyo service starting in Spring 2013.Preparation
To get ready for the delivery of the first United 787, we’ve installed a simulator at our Houston training facility and trained more than 5,600 pilots, flight attendants and mechanics in 787 systems and operations so far.In addition to the ongoing training on the 787, we’re preparing our Houston maintenance facility as a place to store more than 600 spare parts for the 787.Following delivery, the 787 will undergo proving runs: flights that incorporate tests and training as required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). -
United Airlines: 
Thomson Airways starts a “Name our Plane” contest via Twitter
Thomson Airways (London-Luton) has announced it will become the world’s first airline to give the public the chance to name one of its new Boeing 787 Dreamliners using Twitter.
Thomson Airways is also adding #nameourplane onto the side of one of its Boeing 737 aircraft (see below) so “consumers can tweet an image or the location of where they spotted the hashtag, along with their reasons why they should get to name the new 787 Dreamliner. Those who don’t get a glimpse of the hashtagged 737 can still tweet their suggested name.”
Entrants will have just 140 characters (including the hashtag) to make their case with any original twitpics of the tagged plane given special consideration. The winning applicant will be chosen by a panel of judges including: Chris Browne, Managing Director of Thomson Airways, Todd Nelp, Vice President of Sales for Europe, Boeing Commercial Airplanes and Captain Stuart Gruber, Thomson Airways’ Head of Training and the 787 test pilot.
Thomson Airways will operate the new Boeing 787 Dreamliner (above) from four regional airports from May 1, 2013 – Manchester, London Gatwick, Glasgow and East Midlands.
Top Image: Thomson Airways. The Boeing 787 Dreamliners will be painted in the new TUI livery.
Thomson Airways: 
Video:
Bottom Copyright Photo: Thomson Airways. Boeing 737-8K5 G-TAWC (msn 39922) is the aircraft with the special message.
United Airlines to introduce the Boeing 787 Dreamliner in a customized livery
United Airlines (Chicago) is scheduled to take delivery of its first Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner in late September 2012. The aircraft cabin is being installed on the first aircraft, and will be configured with 36 seats in United BusinessFirst, 72 seats in United Economy Plus and 111 seats in United Economy. Cabin color selections use a palette of blue and grey and are consistent with other modern United aircraft. According to the airline, “customers will experience greater comfort with improved lighting, bigger windows, larger overhead bins, lower cabin altitude and enhanced ventilation systems, among other passenger-friendly features.” The 787′s inflight entertainment system features an all-new design that offers more intuitive browsing and more filtering options, giving customers the option of searching for programs by language.
The airline’s 787 fleet will feature a customized livery that is exclusive to the fleet: the gold line that wraps the fuselage will swoop from nose to tail. The swoop is inspired by the trademark swoop painted on each of Boeing’s aircraft and is being adopted for the United 787 in a tribute to the two companies’ long history of working together.
United has been the launch customer for more than a dozen Boeing aircraft models, and was the first airline to operate the 767 and 777 aircraft. This tradition continues with United being the North America launch customer of the 787.
In preparation for delivery of the first United Dreamliner, United installed a full-flight simulator at its Houston hub and is training pilots on operation of the aircraft. Flight attendants and mechanics have trained in 787 systems and operations, with additional training scheduled to continue through the remainder of the year. In addition, United is preparing to provide 787 maintenance support from its Houston base, and the airline is warehousing more than 1,180 different spare parts for easy and rapid access by its technicians.
The 787 will take United customers into the new generation of flying in an economical, efficient and environmentally friendly way. Primarily built with composite materials, the 787 has 30 percent more range and uses approximately 20 percent less fuel than similarly-sized aircraft, while reducing emissions and noise during takeoffs and landings. Because of these advantages, the 787 will open up new nonstop destinations that customers would not be able to otherwise reach on United, such as the recently-announced Denver-to-Tokyo service that starts next spring.
Following delivery of the first aircraft in September, the company will conduct a variety of tests and training, including completing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) conformity checks and proving runs. The company will then enter the 787 into scheduled service in the fall.
United is planning to place five Boeing 787s into service in 2012, and has firm orders for a total of 50 new Dreamliners, with deliveries scheduled through 2019.
Image: United Airlines.
United Airlines: 
Boeing rolls out the first 787 assembled at Charleston, South Carolina
Boeing (Chicago) yesterday (April 27) as planned rolled out the first 787 Dreamliner at the North Charleston plant located at Charleston International Airport (CHS). The first Boeing 787 Dreamliner rolled out of final assembly to great fanfare from the crowd of nearly 7,000 Boeing employees and invited guests. The festival-like atmosphere, featuring aerial displays, music and entertainment, was a fitting celebration to commemorate assembly completion of the first 787.
The airplane’s rollout marks the first time that a Boeing commercial airplane has been produced in the Southeastern United States.
Boeing announced that it had selected North Charleston, S.C., as the location for the second 787 final assembly line on October 28, 2009, and broke ground on the site in November of that year. The South Carolina final assembly facility was completed in June 2011, and production began later that same month.
The airplane next goes to the flight line, where it will go through systems checks and engine runs in advance of taxi testing and first flight. The airplane remains on schedule for delivery to Air India in mid-2012.
Boeing South Carolina also has responsibility for fabrication, integration and assembly of the 787′s midbody and aft body fuselage sections. Once complete, the fuselage sections are either delivered to the South Carolina Final Assembly facility, or transported via the Dreamlifter to Final Assembly in Everett, Washington.
Copyright Photo: Boeing.
Boeing and ANA celebrate the delivery of 787-881 JA808A using a biofuel
Boeing (Chicago) and ANA (All Nippon Airways) (Tokyo) made aviation history yesterday (April 16) as the new 787-881 Dreamliner JA808A (msn 34490) flew for the first time powered in part by sustainable biofuels on its delivery flight.
The delivery flight between Boeing’s Delivery Center in Everett, Washington and Tokyo’s Haneda Airport is also the first ever trans-Pacific biofuel flight.
JA808A flew with biofuel made mainly from used cooking oil and emitted an estimated 30 percent less CO2 emissions when compared to today’s similarly-sized airplanes. Of the reduction in greenhouse gasses, about 10 percent can be attributed to the use of biofuel and approximately 20 percent to the technology and efficiency advancements offered by the Dreamliner.
Copyright Photo: Ole Simon. Now in service, sister ship JA805A departs from Frankfurt.
Hot New Photos Slide Show: CLICK HERE
ANA Slide Show: CLICK HERE
Transaero Airlines signs its contract for four Boeing 787 Dreamliners
Transaero Airlines (Moscow) has signed a firm order for four 787-8 Dreamliners. The signing ceremony for the order, valued at $744 million at list prices, made history by being held onboard the 787 during a demonstration flight for Transaero’s executives, employees and special guests.
Captain Evgeny Nikitin, Commander of Transaero’s 767/777 flying unit, was co-piloting the 787 during the entire flight from takeoff to landing as the signing ceremony took place.
Made primarily from composite materials, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner is the first mid-size airplane capable of flying long-range routes and will allow airlines to open new, nonstop routes preferred by the traveling public. As a result of innovative technologies, the airplane offers unparalleled operating economics, fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. More than 850 787s are on order by 59 customers, a testament to the airplane’s unique capabilities. Russia played an important role in creating this revolutionary airplane. Engineers from the Moscow Boeing Design Center participated in designing a number of key sections of the 787. Russian manufacturer VSMPO-AVISMA supplies titanium parts for the 787 Dreamliner.
Copyright Photo: Boeing. From left: Alexander Krinichansky, Transaero Airlines executive director; Alexander Pleshakov, Transaero Airlines chairman of the board; Marty Bentrott, vice president of Sales for Middle East, Russia and Central Asia, Boeing Commercial Airplanes; Serdar Gurz, director international Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.
Transaero Airlines Slide Show: CLICK HERE
Japan Airlines to take delivery of its first Boeing 787 tomorrow
Japan Airlines-JAL (Tokyo) has announced it will take delivery of its first Boeing 787-8 on March 25, 2012, and the aircraft will be flown from Everett to Tokyo (Narita) by JAL pilots on the following day.
JAL’s first commercial 787 flight will also be the first ever nonstop flight to connect Boston with Asia when JAL uses it to launch the new service between Tokyo (Narita) and Boston on April 22, 2012. JAL will later this year, also use this super-efficient aircraft to start yet another first nonstop service between a US city and Asia with the launch of direct flights between Tokyo (Narita) and San Diego. The 787 is scheduled to be deployed on routes between Tokyo and Beijing, Moscow, New Delhi and Singapore as soon as subsequent aircraft are delivered and all necessary preparations are completed.
The first JAL 787 will depart from PAE at 1600 (4 pm) local time on March 26 and arrive at Tokyo (Narita) at 1830 (6:30 pm) on March 27.
JAL’s 787 Dreamliner is configured in two classes with 42 seats in business and 144 seats in economy. The airline will fit its newest Executive Class JAL SHELL FLAT NEO seats that are 5 cm (2 inches) wider (than the seats now fitted on JAL’s Boeing 777s), in a 2-2-2 configuration so that customers are either seated by the window or along the aisle. Lavatories in Executive Class also feature a special warm-water Toto Washlet*1 jointly developed by companies Toto, JAMCO and Boeing. The 144 Economy Class seats have 2 cm (0.8 inches) wider space than current seats and arranged in a 2-4-2 configuration.
According to the airline, some of the highlights of the revolutionary aircraft are:
・30% larger windows than a Boeing 767 allow for more light into the cabin and a greater view of the outside even for passengers seated in the middle sections.
・Electronically dimmable windows allow customers to adjust the amount of light entering the cabin, and it replaces conventional shades that either completely shut out or let in external light.
・Taking advantage of the kaleidoscope of colors afforded by the new LED lights, JAL’s original onboard lighting design creates a soothing in-flight atmosphere that would evoke a sense of the four seasons in Japan, such as pink hues of cherry blossoms in spring. The lighting is also used to create a more conducive environment at the right timing for a sound slumber and a refreshed wakening, as well as to make in-flight meals more appetizing.
・Higher ceilings and lower cabin pressure are subtle enhancements that make a noticeable difference to customer comfort, especially on long-haul flights. The ceiling of the 787 Dreamliner is approximately 14 cm (5.5 inches) higher than a Boeing 767 aircraft (comparing the height of the economy class section) while the maximum cabin altitude is also lower at 1,800 meters which reduces passenger fatigue.
・A brand new type of in-flight entertainment will be introduced onboard JAL’s 787 Dreamliner, called SKY MANGA which reflects a distinctive part of the Japanese culture. There will be more than 30 titles of Japanese comics available in electronic versions on JAL’s in-flight entertainment system initially, with expansion to English versions planned for the near future.
For more information on JAL’s 787 Dreamliner, visit: http://www.jal.co.jp/en/787/.
Copyright Photo: Michael B. Ing.
Boeing announces fifth segment of the 787 Dream Tour
Boeing (Chicago) this month will begin the fifth segment of the 787 Dream Tour, a worldwide tour featuring the Dreamliner. This leg of the tour will include five cities across South America, Central Asia, Russia and Europe.
The March and April schedule includes the following stops:
- March 26-31: Santiago, Chile to visit LAN Airlines and be on display at the FIDAE Air Show.
- April 1-2: Shannon, Ireland for a scheduled day of maintenance activities.
- April 2-3: Baku, Azerbaijan to visit Azerbaijan Airlines.
- April 3-6: Moscow, Russia to visit airline customers, suppliers and employees from the Boeing Design Center.
- April 6-11: Istanbul, Turkey to visit customers and suppliers.
- April 11-13: Madrid, Spain to visit Air Europa, suppliers and Boeing employees.
The Dream Tour airplane is outfitted with the 787′s special cabin features including a welcoming entryway, dramatically larger dimmable windows, bigger bins and dynamic LED lighting. The airplane is configured with a luxurious business-class cabin, an overhead crew rest compartment and an economy class section.
Dates and locations for additional tour stops will be announced approximately one month in advance. At many of the stops, local media will have the opportunity to participate in tours of the airplane and discussions with Boeing executives and pilots.
For updates on the 787 Dream Tour, including videos, photos and reports from the tour stops, visit www.newairplane.com/787/dreamtour.
Copyright Photo: Brandon Farris.
Boeing receives FAA certification for 787 Dreamliner with GE engines
Boeing (Chicago) received yesterday (March 20) an amended type certificate from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the 787-8 Dreamliner equipped with General Electric GEnx engines.
The amended type certificate from the FAA formally recognizes that the 787 with GE engines has demonstrated compliance with rigorous federal regulations. The achievement caps off the most robust flight and ground test program ever conducted in the company’s history.
Initial type certification of the 787 with Rolls-Royce engines took place in August 2011. Each new combination of an airframe type and engine requires additional certification to validate the integrity of the design.
60 customers around the world have ordered more than 870 Dreamliners.
Copyright Photo: Nick Dean.
Boeing to move 787-9 tail production to Salt Lake City, will maintain the Norwegian 787s
Boeing (Chicago) will move the production of the horizontal tail of its 787-9 Dreamliners from Seattle to Salt Lake City, Utah according to this Reuters report. Alenia Aermacchi will also take over production.
Read the full report: CLICK HERE
Video:
In other news, Boeing today announced that Norwegian Air Shuttle (Oslo), the third largest low-cost airline in Europe, is the newest GoldCare customer, with a 12-year agreement that covers the airline’s future 787 Dreamliner fleet. Norwegian has three 787-8s on firm order, with commitments to lease three additional 787s.
Norwegian has selected GoldCare Enterprise, which encompasses the complete parts, engineering, and maintenance solution. Norwegian also is the first customer to select the line maintenance option through the GoldCare MRO network, in which Boeing manages scheduled and minor maintenance that is conducted between flights and overnight. Norwegian will maintain active control responsibility over all engineering and maintenance activities.
GoldCare is Boeing’s flexible lifecycle solution that provides maintenance, engineering and material management as a multi-year service managed by Boeing. GoldCare utilizes Boeing’s advanced global e-enabling technologies.
Top Copyright Photo: James Helbock. Boeing 787-8 N787BX (msn 40692) 787 arrived on March 12 at San Diego’s Lindbergh Field, continuing its six-month worldwide Dream Tour. The airplane will be in San Diego for a limited time for partners, media and Boeing and Goodrich employees to experience the revolutionary technology and passenger experience firsthand.
Goodrich’s Aerostructures business, headquartered in Chula Vista, California, is responsible for the design and manufacture of the nacelles and thrust reversers for the Boeing 787.
Goodrich has a broad range of technology on the innovative aircraft. In addition to the nacelles and thrust reversers, Goodrich also supplies the flight deck lighting system and cabin attendant seating as well as: the cargo system; wheels and electric braking system; exterior lighting; proximity sensing system; and the fuel quantity indicating system and fuel management software. In addition, Goodrich was selected by Rolls-Royce to provide the engine control system and sensor suite for the Trent 1000 engine, an engine option for the 787.
The airplane, ZA003, was originally used for flight testing but has been elegantly refurbished to showcase the standard capabilities and features of the 787.
Norwegian Slide Show: CLICK HERE
Bottom Image: Norwegian Air Shuttle.
Boeing’s ZA003 arrives in Mexico City
Lining up to see the 787 Dreamliner, originally uploaded by The Boeing Company.
Boeing’s (Chicago) 787 Dreamliner landed for the first time in Mexico City yesterday as part of its World Tour. Over the next day-and-a-half, Aeromexico executives, employees, and special invited guests will get a chance to tour and experience much of the airplane’s cutting-edge technological advancements.
AeroMexico was the first carrier in Latin America to commit to the Dreamliner when it announced it would lease three 787s from ILFC in June 2006 and then the first carrier in the region to order the airplane with a firm order for two Dreamliners in August of that same year.
This is the airplane’s first visit to Mexico City – the world’s third largest metropolitan area. Sitting higher than 7,300 ft (2,225 meters), Mexico City has always played an integral part in Boeing’s flight test programs for high altitude testing.
The airplane, ZA003, was originally used for flight testing but has been elegantly refurbished to showcase the standard capabilities and features of the 787 including an interior that highlights the many passenger-preferred features of the airplane.
In other news, Boeing has completed all flight tests expected to be required for type certification of the 787-8 Dreamliner with General Electric GEnx engines. This marks the end of all certification flight testing associated with the baseline model of the 787. Testing on engine and airframe improvements will continue as needed, as it does for all airplane programs.
Ground testing to complete certification requirements has also concluded.
The final flight concluded late last month with the landing of the 35th 787 built.
Flight testing is one of many elements reviewed by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration before it certifies a new airplane type. Certification of the 787 Dreamliner with Rolls-Royce engines was completed in August 2011. Each new combination of airframe type and engine requires additional certification.
Copyright Photo: Boeing.
Boeing 787 Dreamliner kicks off fourth leg of the Dream Tour in Toronto
Boeing’s (Chicago) 787 Dreamliner touched down at Toronto Pearson International Airport today to kick off the fourth leg of the 787 Dream Tour – a worldwide tour featuring the Dreamliner. This leg of the tour includes eight cities across North America.
The Dream Tour airplane is in Toronto to celebrate Air Canada’s 75th Anniversary. During the two-day stop, Air Canada executives, employees and other guests will have a chance to view the airplane, including the interior. The airplane will also be open to employees of local Boeing 787 partner Messier-Bugatti-Dowty. Those employees provide the Dreamliner’s landing gear structure and electric brakes.
The airplane, ZA003, was originally used for flight testing but has been elegantly refurbished to showcase the capabilities and features of the 787 including an interior that highlights the many passenger-preferred amenities of the airplane.
Top Copyright Photo: Michael B. Ing.
Bottom Copyright Photo: TMK Photography. Boeing 787-8 N787BX (msn 40692) (aka “ZA003) arrives at an overcast Toronto (Pearson).
Boeing announces the next segment of 787 Dream Tour
Another Angle showing ZA003′s New Paint Job, originally uploaded by The Boeing Company.
Boeing (Chicago) will conduct the fourth segment of the 787 Dream Tour beginning on March 1. Stops will include visits to cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
In addition, the Dream Tour airplane, the pictured “ZA003″, will be featured at the FIDAE Air Show in Santiago, Chile, in late March to kick off the fifth segment of the tour.
The March schedule includes the following stops:
March 1-4: Toronto, Canada, to visit Air Canada and local suppliers.
March 4: Boston, Mass., in support of Japan Airlines, which has announced that it will offer 787 service on the Tokyo-Boston route.
March 5-7: Newark, N.J., to visit United Airlines and its local stakeholders.
March 8-9: Mexico City, Mexico, to visit Aero Mexico.
March 10-12: Phoenix, Ariz., to visit Honeywell, other suppliers and Boeing employees.
March 13: San Diego, Calif., to visit Goodrich and other suppliers.
March 14-15: Long Beach, Calif., to visit leasing companies, Boeing employees and suppliers.
March 15-17: Salt Lake City, Utah, to visit Boeing employees and suppliers.
The Dream Tour airplane is outfitted with the 787′s special cabin features, including a welcoming entryway, dramatically larger dimmable windows, bigger bins and dynamic LED lighting. The airplane is configured with a luxurious business-class cabin, an overhead crew rest compartment and an economy class section.
Dates and locations for additional tour stops will be announced approximately one month in advance. At many of the stops, local media will have the opportunity to participate in tours of the airplane and discussions with Boeing executives and pilots.
For updates on the 787 Dream Tour, including videos, photos and reports from the tour stops, visit http://www.newairplane.com/787/dreamtour.
Copyright Photo: Boeing.
Boeing 787 N1015B is flying an unique flight pattern now over the western states
Boeing (Chicago) test aircraft 787-8 Dreamliner N1015B (msn 36276) operating as flight BOE236 is currently on a 19-hour test flight over the northern and western states and is about to complete a giant 787 flight pattern complete with the Boeing logo!
Please click on the Flightaware.com flight tracker for further details:
Please click on the map to enlarge.
Boeing: 787 inspections will not cause a significant delay
Boeing 787-881 N787BA (msn 40690) (ZA001) PAE (Brandon Farris), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Boeing (Chicago) according to Bloomberg have stated “inspections of 787 Dreamliners for signs of delamination on the fuselage won’t cause a significant impact to the production schedule”
Read the full article by Bloomberg: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Brandon Farris.
Can Boeing maintain its projected 10 787s per month with this new problem?
Boeing 787-8 N787FT (msn 40694) BFI (Nick Dean) (test aircraft – ZA005), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Boeing (Chicago) has aggressively laid out plans to produce 10 787 Dreamliners per month. However a new report by Reuters of an “incorrect shimming” problem may affect those plans.
Read the full report: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Nick Dean.
Boeing 787 Dreamliner Coming to Bangkok, Singapore for third segment of Dream Tour
787 Dream Tour Continues in Doha, Qatar, originally uploaded by The Boeing Company.
Boeing (Chicago) will begin the third segment of the 787 Dream Tour next month with two stops in Asia. The all-new Dreamliner will visit Bangkok, Thailand and Singapore.
The February schedule includes the following stops:
Feb. 9-11: Bangkok, Thailand to visit Thai Airways International.
Feb. 11-18: Singapore to visit Singapore Airlines and to be on display at the Singapore Airshow.
The Dream Tour airplane, ZA003, is outfitted with the 787′s special cabin features including a welcoming entryway, dramatically larger dimmable windows, bigger bins and dynamic LED lighting. The airplane is configured with a luxurious business-class cabin, an overhead crew rest compartment and an economy class section.
Dates and locations for additional tour stops will be announced approximately one month in advance. At the stops, local media will have the opportunity to participate in tours of the airplane and discussions with Boeing executives and pilots.
For updates on the 787 Dream Tour, including videos, photos and reports from the tour stops, visit http://www.newairplane.com/787/dreamtour.
Copyright Photo: Boeing.
Boeing announces Second Segment of 787 Dream Tour
“Before” Picture of the Third Boeing 787, ZA003 , originally uploaded by The Boeing Company.
Boeing (Chicago) this month will begin the second segment of the 787 Dream Tour, with four stops planned in the U.S. and Ireland.
The January schedule includes the following stops:
Jan. 20-23: Wichita, Kan., to visit partner Spirit AeroSystems and Boeing employees.
Jan. 23-25: Rockford, Ill., to visit partner Hamilton Sundstrand.
Jan. 25-27: Dublin, Ireland, to visit airline customers, leasing companies, financiers and other stakeholders.
Jan. 27-30: Huntsville, Ala., to visit Boeing employees.
The Dream Tour airplane, ZA003, is outfitted with the 787′s special cabin features, including a welcoming entryway, dramatically larger dimmable windows, bigger bins and dynamic LED lighting. The airplane is configured with a luxurious business-class cabin, an overhead crew rest compartment and an economy class section.
Dates and locations for additional tour stops, which are planned through April, will be announced approximately one month in advance. At many of the stops, local media will have the opportunity to participate in tours of the airplane and discussions with Boeing executives and pilots.
For updates on the 787 Dream Tour, including videos, photos and reports from the tour stops, visit http://www.newairplane.com/787/dreamtour.
Copyright Photo: Boeing.
Boeing starts construction of the first South Carolina-built 787 Dreamliner
Boeing (Chicago) reached a new milestone with the construction of the first 787 Dreamliner at its new North Charleston, SC second-line plant. The company announced its first South Carolina-built 787 put weight on wheels for the first time on December 18.
The airplane moved on its landing gear, via tug, to the next production position where electrical, hydraulic and mechanical systems installation and testing will continue over the next several weeks. Installation of the airplane’s engines and interior will begin soon.
Boeing South Carolina remains on schedule for its first 787 Dreamliner delivery in the first half of 2012.
Air India will take delivery of this first SC-produced 787.
Made from composite materials, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner is the first mid-size airplane capable of flying long-range routes and will allow airlines to open new, non-stop routes preferred by the traveling public. As a result of innovative technologies, the airplane offers unparalleled operating economics, fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. More than 800 787s are on order by more than 50 airlines, a testament to the airplane’s unique capabilities.
Copyright Photo: Boeing.
Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner touches down in Africa
Boeing 787-8 N787FT (msn 40694) BFI (Nick Dean) (test aircraft – ZA005), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Boeing’s (Chicago) 787 Dreamliner touched down in Ethiopia ‘s capital today (December 11) to kick off the Africa portion of Boeing’s 787 Dream Tour – a six-month worldwide tour featuring the Dreamliner. This is the first time the Dreamliner has visited the African continent.
The Dream Tour airplane will be in Addis Ababa , the capital of Ethiopia and home to Ethiopian Airlines, December 11-14 before it travels to Nairobi, Kenya. During the four-day stop, Ethiopian Airlines executives and employees, government officials and other guests will have a chance to view the airplane, including the interior.
The airplane, ZA003, was originally used for flight testing but has been elegantly refurbished to showcase the standard capabilities and features of the 787 including an interior that highlights the many passenger-preferred features of the airplane.
Copyright Photo: Nick Dean.
Boeing 787 Dreamliner sets speed and distance records
Boeing (Chicago) has established two world records with the 787 Dreamliner, setting new marks for both speed and distance for the airplane’s weight class.
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner is the first airplane to provide both long distance capabilities with mid-size capacity (210-250 passengers in a three-class seating), allowing airlines to open new, non-stop routes preferred by the traveling public. The airplane is 20 percent more fuel efficient than similarly sized airplanes.
The sixth 787-8 registered as N787ZA (msn 40695), designated as ZA006, powered by General Electric GEnx engines, departed from Boeing Field in Seattle at 11:02 a.m. on Dec. 6 and set the distance record for its class (440,000-550,000 lbs.) with a 10,710 nmi (19,835 km) flight to Dhaka, Bangladesh, with credit for 10,337 nmi (19,144 km). This record had previously been held by the Airbus A330 based on a 9,127 nmi (16,903 km) flight in 2002.
Following an approximately two-hour stop for refueling in Dhaka , the airplane returned to Seattle on a 9,734 nmi (18,027 km) flight. The airplane landed at 5:29 a.m. on December 8, setting a new record for speed around the world (eastbound) with a total trip time of 42 hours and 27 minutes. There was no previous around-the-world speed record for this weight class.
The 787 carried six pilots, an observer for the National Aeronautic Association (NAA), and operations and other Boeing employees – 13 people in total.
Flight routing on the first segment of the journey took the airplane from Seattle across the U.S. to Nantucket. After crossing the Atlantic Ocean, the airplane entered European air space at Santiago, Spain, and proceeded down the Mediterranean, across Egypt to Luxor, across the Middle East and over India to Bangladesh. On the second segment, the Dreamliner flew over Singapore , the Philippines and Guam before entering U.S. airspace over Honolulu and returning to Seattle.
Boeing holds world records for longest distance flights in five weight classes with records set by the KC-135, 767-200ER (extended range), 777-200 and 777-200LR (longer range). The 777-200 also holds the speed record for its weight class.
Copyright Photo: Joe G. Walker.
Boeing launches its 787 Dreamliner tour in China
Boeing (Chicago) introduced the 787 Dreamliner to China today.
The airplane will be in China December 4 through 11, with stops in Beijing, Guangzhou and Haikou , “where Chinese customers, partners, government officials and media will experience the revolutionary technology and passenger innovation firsthand” according to Boeing.
The airplane, ZA003, was originally used for flight testing but has been elegantly refurbished to showcase the standard capabilities and features of the 787.
Copyright Photo: Boeing. Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner registered as N787BX (msn 40692) and referred to by Boeing as “ZA003″ arrived today (December 4) at the Beijing Capital International Airport, making its debut in mainland China, one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation and travel markets. It also marks the start of a six-month worldwide Dream Tour with the all-new jet.
Boeing announces a world 787 “Dream Tour”
A new look for ZA003, originally uploaded by The Boeing Company.
Boeing (Chicago) will begin a six-month “Dream Tour” with a 787 Dreamliner. According to Boeing, “customers and partners around the world will experience the revolutionary technology and passenger innovation offered on the first new airplane of the 21st century.”
The December schedule for the 787 Dream Tour includes six stops in Asia , Africa and the Middle East :
December 4-11 : China with stops in Beijing , Guangzhou and Haikou to visit customers, partners, and government officials including representatives from Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), Air China, China Southern, Hainan Airlines, Aviation Industries of China (AVIC) and Chengdu Aircraft Industrial Co. (CAC).
December 11-16 : Africa with stops in Addis Ababba, Ethiopia and Nairobi, Kenya to visit Ethiopian Airlines and Kenya Airways.
December 16-19 : Middle East stop in Doha to visit Qatar Airways.
Specific dates for the subsequent segments of the tour will be announced about one month prior to the events. Additional tour stops are being planned for January through April 2012 and will be detailed in future announcements.
Many of the stops will include opportunities for local media to tour the airplane and talk with Boeing executives and pilots.
Aviation enthusiasts can follow the progress of the 787 tour at www.newairplane.com. Videos, photos and reports from the tour stops as well as an inside look at the airplane, will be featured beginning with the first stop next week.
The Dream Tour airplane, ZA003, (N787EX) has been retrofitted with special interior features designed to highlight the unique cabin features and performance capabilities of the Dreamliner. The flight test equipment on board ZA003, the third 787 to be built, has been removed and a stunning new interior has been installed (see above). The airplane also has received a refreshed Boeing livery.
Visitors will be greeted by the spacious signature 787 entryway sky light and gathering area. The LED lighting, standard on all 787s, will be demonstrated throughout the tour airplane. Visitors will experience the dynamic affect of this new technology to make meal time more enjoyable, sooth passengers during restful periods and gently wake them following a long flight.
Visitors also will find a luxurious business-class cabin with a dozen lay-flat seats, an overhead crew rest compartment and an economy class section. A large open space between the two economy class sections allows Boeing to spotlight the features of the 787 with displays and demonstrations. The exterior of the airplane has been repainted in the standard Boeing livery.
Copyright Photo: Boeing.
Boeing hands over the first 787 Dreamliner to ANA
ANA (All Nippon Airways) Boeing 787-881 JA801A (msn 34488) (Dreamliner special colors) PAE (Nick Dean), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Boeing (Chicago) and ANA (All Nippon Airweays) (Tokyo) yesterday (September 25) as planned signed the formal documents completing the contractual delivery of the first 787 Dreamliner. Celebrations to mark this historic milestone begin today in Everett with a delivery ceremony followed by flyaway of the airplane on Tuesday. The signing comes after a series of flights, inspections and the transfer of funds.
Celebrations for Boeing employees begin Monday at 6 a.m. (0600) (Pacific time) outside the 787 factory in Everett with the static display of ZA002, one of the flight test airplanes painted in ANA’s livery. ANA and Boeing executives, employees, partners and government officials will gather at 9 a.m. (0900) for the delivery ceremony in the same location. The pictured “Airplane 24″, painted in ANA’s special livery, will join the display during the ceremony. Flyaway of the airplane to Tokyo is scheduled for Tuesday morning at 6:35 a.m. (0635) from Paine Field.
A live webcast of Monday’s delivery events and Tuesday’s flyaway can be seen at www.newairplane.com. Video highlights of those events also will be posted to the website.
Copyright Photo: Nick Dean. Please click on the photo for additional details.
ANA, Boeing set date for first 787 Dreamliner delivery
ANA (All Nippon Airways) Boeing 787-881 N787EX (msn 34488) BFI (Gabor Hajdufi) (test aircraft ZA002), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Boeing (Chicago) and ANA (All Nippon Airways) announced on August 26 they will celebrate the delivery of the first 787 Dreamliner on September 26 in Everett (Paine Field). The actual contractual delivery occurs on September 25. Events throughout the day on September 26 will commemorate delivery of this game changing airplane to its launch customer.
ANA’s first Dreamliner will arrive in Tokyo on September 28, following a September 27 departure from Everett (Paine Field) and will be greeted by ANA employees, media and Japanese partners.
Copyright Photo: Gabor Hajdufi. Please click on the photo for additional information.
Boeing 787 Dreamliner receives FAA, EASA certification
Boeing 787-881 N787BA (msn 40690) (ZA001) PAE (Brandon Farris), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Boeing (Chicago) 0n August 26 received certification for the all-new 787 Dreamliner from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) during a ceremony at the company’s Everett, Washington, facility.
FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt presented the U.S. Type Certificate, which verifies that the 787 has been tested and found to be in compliance with all federal regulations, to 787 Chief Pilot Mike Carriker and 787 Vice President and Chief Project Engineer Mike Sinnett, both of whom have worked on the program since the day it began.
Babbitt presented the amended Production Certificate 700 to John Cornish, vice president of 787 Final Assembly & Delivery, and Barb O’Dell, vice president of Quality for the 787 program. The Production Certificate adds the 787 to the list of Boeing Commercial Airplane production systems that have been found to be compliant with all federal regulations.
Copyright Photo: Brandon Farris. Please click on the photo for additional information.
Boeing completes 787 flight testing for Rolls-Royce aircraft
ANA (All Nippon Airways) Boeing 787-881 Dreamliner N1006F (JA803A) (ZA102) (msn 34486) PAE (Nick Dean), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Boeing (Chicago) completed all flight tests required for type certification of the 787-8 Dreamliner with Rolls-Royce engines on July 13, 2011. The final flight occurred on July 13 onboard the pictured N1006F (ZA102), the ninth 787 to be built. Captain Mike Carriker, chief pilot for the 787 program, brought ZA102 back to its home base at Paine Field in Everett at 1:58 p.m. (1358) (Pacific time) following a 90 minute flight that originated in Billings, Montana. During the flight, the 14-person crew completed simulations of a dispatch with a failed generator and failed fuel flow indication.
Video highlights of 787 flight testing can be found at: http://youtu.be/9yRmwGMNuDo.
Flight testing continues for 787s with GE engines and for Boeing test points not related to certification.
Copyright Photo: Nick Dean. Please click on the photo for additional details.
Boeing plans to finalize 787 testing this weekend
Boeing 787-881 N787BA (msn 40690) (ZA001) PAE (Brandon Farris), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Boeing (Chicago) is planning to finish flight testing for its 787 Dreamliner this weekend according to this report by Reuters.
The first production 787 will be handed over to ANA in September. The long wait is also over.
Read the full report: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Brandon Farris. Please click on the photo for additional information.
This ANA painted Boeing 787 Dreamliner arrives in Japan to begin stimulated airline service
ANA (All Nippon Airways) Boeing 787-881 N787EX (msn 34488) PAE (Nick Dean), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
ANA (All Nippon AIrways) and Boeing today (July 4) began an important validation of their readiness for the 787 Dreamliner’s entry into service.
Throughout the coming days, ANA pilots, together with Boeing, will fly a 787 on actual airline routes in Japan using airline dispatch and flight rules. ANA’s mechanics and ground crews also will gain experience with the airplane in a simulated operational environment.
The 787 debuted in Asia yesterday (July 3) with a landing at Haneda Airport in Tokyo at 6:21 a.m. (0621) (local time). More than a thousand media, ANA employees and aviation enthusiasts gathered to witness the 787′s arrival and welcome ANA pilots Captains Masayuki Ishii and Masami Tsukamoto and Boeing pilots Captains Mike Carriker, Heather Ross and Ted Grady.
Sporting ANA’s livery, this 787 flight test airplane designated ZA002 flew nonstop to Tokyo from Seattle.
Throughout the week-long validation, the 787 will experience simulated day-to-day airline operations. maintenance, servicing and flight crew operations will be conducted at five airports in Tokyo, Osaka (Itami and Kansai), Okayama and Hiroshima.
ANA’s first scheduled service with the 787 will be either the Haneda-Okayama or Haneda-Hiroshima route when deliveries begin later this year.
ANA has 55 Dreamliners on order. ANA will deploy the 787 across its route network as an integral part of its strategy to strengthen its position and support its growth and expansion plans.
Boeing plans to deliver the first 787 to ANA in the August to September timeframe.
Copyright Photo: Nick Dean. Please click on the photo for the aircraft details.
