Latest Pictures of Air Canada's FIRST 787 (DreamLiner)

In these latest pictures from Boeing's hangar in Seattle, notice the oversized yellow boxes hanging from each wing of our first Dreamliner. Those heavy boxes are used as placeholders until the actual engines, which weigh more than 10,000lb each, can be installed. This way, the wing will keep it shape. Notice anything else that’s new? The landing gear, which are largely manufactured here in Canada, are also in place. More pictures to come next week. Stay Tuned! 

Photo Credit: Boeing Images

Photo Credit: Boeing Images 

Photo Credit: Boeing Images

Photo Credit: Boeing Images

Photo Credit: Boeing Images

Boeing/AirCanada 

Why I think the A350XWB is a better fit compared to the B787 (The DREAMLINER)

Photo Credit: Boeing Images

As an aviation enthusiast, I want all companies to succeed; however, Boeing’s commercial program has been a huge disappointment lately. The B787 is a great aircraft, the first of its kind in commercial production, it set the precedence for the A350 to evolve, as well as future aviation, but unfortunately, the B787 program fell short and hasn't been very successful.

Like the A380 that flopped and did not break-even, the 787 faces the same fate. The program had a bright future because of its futuristic –ish design and components: 50% composite – less weight and more cost savings – and despite its positive outlook, it failed in delivery. I recalled its successful launch, it was highly publicized, but no sooner than the first sets of aircrafts entered into service, the problems began. It is no news about numerous problems that plagued the program, what had Boeing done wrong, AGAIN?

Airbus having realized that bigger is ALWAYS better, they went back to the drawing board and emerged well prepared with the A350XWB. I strongly believe that the Airbus Company built a better and more efficient design based on Boeing’s failure of the 787 program. Although it’s too early to praise the A350XWB which is scheduled for commercial service the first quarter of 2014, it is highly speculative and anticipated to perform well than its rival.

To me, I’m more concerned about which is better, on the surface, I will peak into these two aircraft and what they have to offer


The 787-800 seats 210 to 250 passengers (average of 230 passengers), and has a range of 7,650 to 8,200 nautical miles (14,200 to 15,200 kilometers) an average of 7,925 miles (14,700 kilometers) and a price tag of  $211 million (Source)

The A350-800 designed to carry 276 passengers in a twin aisle configuration (46 passengers more on average) flying up to 8,250 nautical miles (15,300 kilometers). The price tag is $261 million ($50 million) more than its competitor. 

To me, despite the higher expense, the Airbus is a more cost-effective aircraft and here is why
For the purpose of this exercise, I am assuming a 100% LF and also maximum range, given this scenario,




Boeing’s Available Seat Mile (ASM) is the following
At Min, ASM = 210 passengers x 7,650 nautical miles = 1,606,500
At Max, ASM = 250 passengers x 8,200 nautical miles = 2,050,000
At Avg, ASM = 230 passengers x 7,925 nautical miles = 1,822,750

For the purpose of calculation, I reversed the table to favor Boeing’s B787 because in realism, the more passengers on board (compensating for gross weight), the less fuel carried onboard resulting to less mileage flown.

Airbus ASM = 276 passengers x 8,250 nautical miles = 2,277,000

ASM or Available Seat Mile is an airline measure of carrying capacity of an airplane on a given trip. This measure is utilized by airlines to determine Revenue and Cost because not all seats (ticket) on the aircraft cost the same, therefore, this measure is very important to airlines. To calculate what ASM is, you simply multiply the aircraft's maximum available seats by the destination range or the number of miles flown. 

ASM = Available Seats x Distance flown,

•  where available seats is total number of seats on the plane - reserved non-revenue seats. Non-revenue could be employees embarking on company business, security escorts like Federal Marshals, etc. 

For instance, A NY to Washington DC flight is operated with a B737-800 and has a seating capacity of 180 passengers flying a distance of 220 nautical miles. However, because it's headed into Washington, DC there are two Marshals on the plane with a mechanic. The ASM is 

ASM =[180 - 3]  x 220  = 38,940 available seat miles. 

I thought I explain this detail before continuing any further. Also, for the purpose of a fair comparison, I assumed the maximum seating capacity as the available seat and maximum range as the number of miles flown. 

Photo Credit: Airbus Images

The Airbus ASM is 11% higher than Boeing’s Maximum scenario; however, this result isn't definitive because it just tells us that Airbus has 11% more operating capacity than Boeing. To the average person, this technical jargon doesn't translate any meaningful information; therefore using Boeing’s Max scenario, it will cost an airline about 32.80 miles/seat (8,200 / 250) in comparison to Airbus which is 29.89 miles/seat (8,250 / 276). Yet, using the industry standard of seat/mile, Boeing s/m is 0.0304 and Airbus is 0.0334.

As you can see, Airbus has more seats/mile which translates into more revenue/mile (if filled). That’s a 9.7% advantage over Boeing. Imagine a 9% ticket reduction in the base fare, though not significant, but that is a good savings. This is how the numbers add up.

Although Airbus does come out on top regardless, it wouldn't make more sense if we don’t evaluate the cost of aircraft into these calculations. The B787 cost $211 million and the A350 cost $261 million, both -800 models, taking a closer look at the Purchase Price – ASM Factor, assuming everything is equal (subsidies, discounts, and what not),  what does it cost to operate a single seat per the cost of the aircraft?

The Initial Cost Price for the 787 is $211 million and the Max ASM is 2,050,000 and this equals to $102.93/ASM compared to Airbus which is $114.62. Using the Max scenario and giving a fair comparison to Airbus, adjusting for the average scenario, the result is $115.17, 55 cents more expensive.

What this means is for instance, assuming the Cost-Available Seat Mile is 8 cents, the aircraft has to fly for extra 7 miles to break-even on the cost and 7 miles when multiplied by the per mile rate, can be several hundred if not thousands of $$$.

In a more realistic scenario, I will give it hands down to the A350XWB, the aircraft though expensive for its class type, happens to be more cost efficient than the 787. Please keep in mind, other factors such as Direct Operating Costs, as well as others wasn't considered. This analysis just expresses the numbers on its face. 

Lion Air to convert 787 order into narrowbodies

Lion Air plans to convert its order for five Boeing 787 aircraft into narrowbodies, says its president director Rusdi Kirana. It will likely be converted into Boeing 737s. Kirana explains that the slots constraints in Indonesia, especially out of Jakarta, means that airlines require jets bigger than the 787. He would not list the widebody aircraft types the group is evaluating, but says that Lion has plans to add widebodies to its fleet as part of its domestic expansion plans.

Flight Global

Boeing Rolls Out First 787 Dreamliner at Increased Production Rate

• Program achieves 10 per month rate, highest ever production for a twin-aisle airplane

EVERETT, Wash., Jan. 24, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) has rolled out the first Boeing 787 Dreamliner built at the rate of 10 airplanes per month. The airplane, a 787-8 and the 155th Dreamliner built, will be delivered to International Lease Finance Corp. for operation by Aeromexico.

The new 10 per month rate is the highest ever for a twin-aisle airplane. The 787 program has now increased its production rate three times in just over a year, including to five airplanes per month in November 2012 and seven per month in May 2013.

EVERETT, Wash., Jan. 24, 2014 – Boeing [NYSE: BA] has rolled out the first Boeing 787 Dreamliner built at the rate of 10 airplanes per month.
Pictured here is the airplane, a 787-8, which will be delivered to International Lease Finance Corp. for operation by Aeromexico.

"This rate increase reflects the continued strong demand for the 787," said Larry Loftis, vice president and general manager, 787 program, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "A disciplined approach that combined employee teamwork with technology was key to achieving the higher rate."
Boeing assembles and delivers 787s in two locations: Everett, Wash., and North Charleston, S.C.

"The entire 787 team is now focused on capturing efficiencies at this historic level of production, as well as meeting our commitment to increase the production rate to 12 per month in 2016 and to 14 per month by the end of the decade," Loftis said.

To date, 115 787s have been delivered to 16 customers. The program has 1,030 total orders from 60 customers worldwide.

This airplane will be the fourth 787 operated by Aeromexico and will be used on the airline's Mexico City - London Heathrow route.

Boeing Media

At the rate of 10 airplanes a month without any hitches or glitches in the production and manufacturing chain process, or yet, the quality assurance aspect which includes the current mechanical and electrical setbacks facing the 787 program, assuming everything is constant, which include

a. no more orders from customers
b. no cancelled or revoked purchase contracts
c. no addition, revision to existing contracts or any other event

Given this scenario,  it would take Boeing an estimated 91.5 months which is equivalent to 7 years, 8 months and 15 days to fully deliver. The 787 design has endeared a lot of negative setback, and while the positive outweighs the negative, I hope that Boeing lives up to expectation, and not in the bid to push out orders, quality is compromised.

Boeing, Transaero Airlines Finalize Order for Four 787 Dreamliner

Boeing (NYSE: BA) and Transaero Airlines of Russia recently signed an 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.

"Our history with Boeing goes back to 1993 when Transaero became the first airline in Russia to fly with Boeing aircraft," said Transaero Airlines Chairman of the Board of Directors Alexander Pleshakov. "Following our innovative approach and our continuous efforts to enhance our product quality, we have chosen the state-of-the-art, highly-efficient Boeing 787 Dreamliner. It is very symbolic that our airline became a participant of the first order announcement ceremony conducted in the air on board the 787. Boeing 787s will perform flights on both Transaero's domestic and international routes."

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, 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 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.


"Boeing and Transaero enjoy an almost two-decades-long partnership and we are opening a great new chapter together with the 787 Dreamliner," said Marty Bentrott, vice president of Sales for Middle East, Russia and Central Asia, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We look forward to working with Transaero to offer the airline's passengers the unprecedented comfort of the 787 Dreamliner and our continued partnership with this great airline."

Transaero was the first private airline in Russia established in 1991. Transaero also was the first Russian airline to introduce a Boeing airplane to its fleet. In 1993 Transaero started operating its 737. Today Transaero is the second largest airline in Russia operating the 737, 747, 767 and 777 Boeing airplanes.


Boeing Media

Japan Airlines receives first two Boeing 787-8s

Photo Credit: Boeing/Flight Global

Japan Airlines (JAL) has taken delivery of its first two Boeing 787-8s, becoming the first airline to receive a 787 powered by the General Electric GEnx-1B engine.

The delivery also marks the first time two 787s have been delivered simultaneously, Boeing said in a statement.
"Today is an important moment in our 60-year relationship with Japan Airlines as we celebrate the deliveries of not one, but two Dreamliners," says Jim Albaugh, president and chief executive of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The 787 will provide the fuel-efficient airplane needed to serve Japan Airlines' growing international operations."

The delivery took place at Boeing's Everett production facility on 25 March. On 21 March, JAL said the aircraft would be flown to Tokyo by JAL pilots, arriving at 18:30 hours local time on 27 March.
On 22 April, the carrier will start non-stop services between Tokyo and Boston with the 787. Later this year, JAL will launch a non-stop Tokyo-San Diego service with the 787.

The carrier, which has 25 firm orders for the 787-8 and 20 for the 787-9, plans to deploy the aircraft on routes between Tokyo and Beijing, Moscow, New Delhi and Singapore.


Flight Global

Boeing Receives Certification for 787 Dreamliner With GE Engines

EVERETT, Wash., March 20, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) received an amended type certificate today from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the 787-8 Dreamliner equipped with General Electric GEnx engines.

"This is a great day for our customers and for our team who worked tirelessly to ensure the Dreamliner offers breakthrough fuel efficiency, unprecedented performance and new levels of comfort," said Larry Loftis, vice president and general manager of the 787 program. "We are pleased to accept the FAA's confirmation of the safety and reliability of this airplane."

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.

"This milestone completes the certification of the 787-8 airplane, and allows airlines to now operate the GE engine-powered 787 with both the baseline Block 4 engine and the PIP1 engine upgrade," said Mike Sinnett, vice president and chief project engineer for the 787 program. "It also represents the success of a remarkable partnership with the regulatory agencies around the world."

"This is the culmination of extraordinary work by teams from GE and Boeing," said Chuck Nugent, general manager of the GEnx engine program for General Electric. "GE Aviation is honored to power the Boeing 787 Dreamliner with its new GEnx-1B engine, and we look forward to seeing the aircraft-engine combination flying the skies around the world."

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.

Boeing Media

Boeing 787 Dreamliner Wins Coveted Collier Trophy

WASHINGTON, March 13, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing's (NYSE: BA) 787 Dreamliner has won the 2011 Robert J. Collier Trophy, one of the aerospace industry's most prestigious honors for excellence. The award places the ultra fuel-efficient Dreamliner in an exclusive group of pioneers that revolutionized air travel.

"We were very pleased with this year's slate of nominations - all of them were impressive, inspirational, and innovative and certainly represent the future of aviation and aerospace," said Walter Boyne, Chairman of the National Aeronautic Association and Chairman of the Selection Committee. "We congratulate Boeing on their great accomplishment with the 787."

The NAA awards the prize to the air or space vehicle that represents the greatest aeronautic achievement in America, the value of which was demonstrated by actual use during the previous year. The 787 Dreamliner, the first mid-size commercial airplane capable of flying long-range routes, completed a rigorous flight testing effort to earn certification in 2011. The 787 was then delivered to ANA of Japan and put into service on daily routes. The Dreamliner wrapped up 2011 by setting two world records in its class, one for speed and one for distance.

"It's not often in a career that we have the chance to make history – to do something big and bold that will change the world in untold ways and endure long after we are gone," said Jim Albaugh, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The men and women of Boeing, working with our partners around the world, poured their hearts into designing, building and delivering the 787 Dreamliner. It was a long and sometimes difficult journey.  We're deeply honored to receive this award."

The Collier Trophy, first awarded in 1911, was designed to encourage innovation in aerospace by emphasizing improved performance, efficiency and safety. Past winners include Orville Wright; the Neil Armstrong and Apollo 11 Moon mission team; Boeing for several airplanes, including the 747 and the 777; Boeing and partners for the F/A-18E/F, the International Space Station; and Bell Boeing for the V-22 Osprey Tiltrotor.

Built largely with lightweight composite materials, combined with a host of breakthrough technologies, the 787 Dreamliner is 20 percent more fuel efficient than similarly-sized airplanes, allowing airlines to open new, non-stop routes preferred by the traveling public. The airplane is also much easier for airlines to maintain and sets new standards in environmental performance. 60 customers have ordered 868 Dreamliners, making it the fastest-selling wide-body airplane in commercial aviation history.

Boeing Media

Air India to receive seven 787s by March 2013

State-owned carrier Air India will take delivery of seven Boeing 787s by March 2013. The carrier expects to receive the first aircraft in May and the second in June, Air India chairman Rohit Nandan told reporters at the sidelines of the India Aviation air show in Hyderabad. The deliveries come after more than four years of delay and the carrier is now in negotiations with Boeing about possible compensation.

"The issue of compensation is between us and the carrier," said Dinesh Keskar, president of Boeing India, when asked to confirm whether a $500 million sum had been agreed on. Delays in the delivery of the 787s have caused Air India "a lot of problems in their plans and expansion", said the country's civil aviation minister Ajit Singh at a press conference.

He added that a financial-restructuring package for the loss-making carrier has been sent to the cabinet for a formal approval. The government is expected to pump rupees (Rs) 650 million ($13 million) into the carrier.
The loss-making carrier's restructuring will also include converting some of its short-term loans to long term ones and turning some debt into non-convertible deposits with interest guaranteed by the government.

"We will bail out Air India but not indefinitely. We can't keep paying unless they improve," said the minister.
He added that the government "cannot and will not bail out Kingfisher" and said some of the country's other private airlines are in dire straits. Air India will use the equity infusion from the government to pay for employee salaries, dues to fuel companies and airport operators and other debts, said Nandan.


Flight Global

Boeing 787 Dreamliner for Air India Debuts in New Delhi

Photo Credit: Boeing Media

NEW DELHI, March 12, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- After a 14-hour non-stop flight from Seattle, a Boeing (NYSE: BA) 787 Dreamliner in Air India's colors touched down at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi today.

"We're proud to bring the world's most advanced commercial airplane to India, especially when it proudly displays the colors of national flag carrier Air India," said Dinesh Keskar, senior vice president of Asia Pacific and India Sales for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "This week even more of our airline customers will experience the game-changing technologies and innovations the 787 has to offer."

The 787 will be on static display in New Delhi before debuting at India Aviation 2012 in Hyderabad on March 14. The Dreamliner that will be showcased is outfitted in Air India's livery and an inviting passenger interior featuring full business and economy-class cabins.

Made from composite materials, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner is the first airplane to provide both long distance capabilities with mid-size capacity. This capability will allow airlines like Air India to profitably operate non-stop routes to many more distant cities, providing choices 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 60 customers, a testament to the airplane's unique capabilities.

Boeing Media

Boeing 787 Team Honored for Extraordinary Accomplishment With Aviation Week Laureate Award

EVERETT, Wash., March 8, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing's (NYSE: BA) 787 Dreamliner team has been honored with a 2012 Aviation Week Laureate Award in Aeronautics/Propulsion. The award was bestowed by the editors of Aviation Week to recognize the team's extraordinary accomplishments.

"Boeing made a bold decision to combine advanced aerodynamics, new composite materials, more-electric systems, fuel-efficient engines and a totally new production paradigm," said Graham Warwick, Aviation Week senior editor, Technology, in presenting the award. "And now it's paying off for both the manufacturer and the operator."

For the past 55 years, Aviation Week has recognized pioneers and leaders in aviation, aerospace and defense with this prestigious award. Past winners in the Aeronautics/Propulsion category include the X-51A Waverider Hypersonic Vehicle Team and the Pratt & Whitney PW1000G geared turbofan development team.  

"On behalf of the men and women around the world who worked tirelessly to ensure the 787 Dreamliner is an amazing airplane that embodies our customers' and passengers' hopes and dreams, we deeply appreciate this prestigious honor," said Scott Fancher, who led the 787 program for more than three years and represented the team in accepting the award.

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is the first airplane to provide both long distance capabilities with mid-size capacity, 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. Sixty customers have 868 Dreamliners on order, making the 787 the fastest-selling widebody airplane in commercial aviation history.


Boeing Media

The Dreamliner Lands in Mexico City for World Tour Stop

MEXICO CITY, March 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing's (NYSE: BA) 787 Dreamliner landed for the first time in Mexico City today 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.

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 60 carriers, a testament to the airplane's unique capabilities.


Boeing Media

Boeing Completes Awaited Flight Testing for Certification of 787s With GE Engines

EVERETT, Wash., March 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) 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 last phase of testing focused on extended operations on-board a production airplane," said Mike Sinnett, vice president and chief project engineer, 787 program. "The airplane performed beautifully during this testing, further demonstrating its reliability." 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.

"I want to congratulate all of the men and women of Boeing and our partners who helped support our flight test program," Sinnett said. "They have completed the most robust, thorough flight test program in our history."
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner features a wide array of passenger amenities including larger windows, cleaner air, higher humidity and a lower cabin altitude.


Boeing Media

PICTURE: Diverted ANA 787 pays unexpected Heathrow visit

One of Japanese carrier All Nippon Airways' Boeing 787s has become the first of the type to arrive at London Heathrow after diverting from Frankfurt Main. The twin-engined aircraft, registered JA805A and operating flight NH203, touched down unexpectedly on 2 March.

ANA said the flight had been diverted "due to fog". It had been scheduled to land at Frankfurt at 05:25.
Meteorological data for Frankfurt at the time indicated fog, overcast skies and low visibility.
Similar conditions prevailed at other nearby hubs including Paris Charles de Gaulle and Munich.

The aircraft subsequently departed for Frankfurt ahead of operating the return NH204 service back to Tokyo Haneda. ANA has five 787s in service, all powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines.

Flight Global

Boeing 787 Dreamliner Kicks Off Fourth Leg of the Dream Tour in Toronto

TORONTO, March 1, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing's (NYSE: BA) 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.

"Boeing is pleased to have the 787 Dreamliner participate in Air Canada's 75th Anniversary celebration," said John Wojick, vice president of Sales for North America, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Bringing the 787 to Toronto enables us to showcase the future of the Air Canada fleet. The 787's cutting-edge technologies will provide Air Canada the economic advantages and passenger comfort to succeed and grow for decades to come."

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. "The 787 is a key component of our fleet renewal strategy and Air Canada's future," said Ben Smith, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of Air Canada. "We are excited at the prospect of hosting the 787 for our 75th Anniversary. Our employees and special guests will see first hand the technologies that distinguish the 787, both in terms of improved operating performance and greater passenger comfort."

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.

Boeing Media

Boeing picks up awards for record-breaking 787 flight

Boeing has been presented with twin official records for the 787's December 2011 attempt to break the longest flight for an aircraft in its weight class and establishing an around-the-world speed record. The National Aeronautic Association (NAA) on 28 February presented Boeing with two certificates confirming its record flights.

ZA006, Boeing's sixth 787 flight test aircraft, fitted with General Electric GEnx-1B engines, departed Boeing Field, Seattle, US, on 6 December 2011 en route for Dhaka, Bangladesh, weighing 212t (467,375lb), including 103t of fuel, the volumetric shut-off limit for the aircraft.

Rod Skaar, assistant chief production pilot for Boeing Commercial Airplanes, called the flight "delightfully" boring, as was intended. "You don't want any excitement, you don't want any adventure, you don't want any drama," he said.

After flying 10,710nm (19,814km), ZA006 landed in Dhaka with 13.6t of fuel remaining. Boeing officially received credit from the NAA for 10,336nm flown. The distance record for the 200-250t weight class was held by an Airbus A330 that flew 9,127nm in 2002.

After 200 people toured the new twin-jet during a 1h 52min refueling stop on the ground in the Bangladeshi capital, the 787 departed Dhaka heading eastbound, having taken on 86t of fuel for the second leg of the journey.

The 787's lateral and vertical navigation modes (LNAV and VNAV) were used to fly the overwhelming majority of the record-breaking flights, said Mike Carriker, chief pilot for Boeing product development.
As NAA rules prohibit cutting a waypoint corner short, as the LNAV function is designed to do to optimize routing, the 787 was required to switch to heading select mode, overflying predetermined turn points in New York, Luxor, Egypt, and southern India before proceeding on course.

On its return leg to Seattle, the 787 landed with 9.08t of fuel remaining, even after accelerating the Dreamliner to Mach 0.88 for the final 6h of the flight. The global circumnavigation lasted 42h 26min.
Six pilots, on rotating 4h shifts throughout the flight, were among 13 people on board ZA006, including two NAA observers.


Flight Global

Boeing Receives Official Certificates for 787 World Records

EVERETT, Wash., Feb. 28, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Jonathan Gaffney, president and CEO of the National Aeronautic Association, presented Boeing (NYSE: BA) with two certificates confirming the official status of the two world records earned by the 787 Dreamliner in late 2011.

The airplane earned records for completing the longest flight for an airplane in its weight class (440,924 to 551,155 lbs.) with a 10,336 nmi (19,142 km) flight to Dhaka, Bangladesh. This record had previously been held by the Airbus A330 with a 9,126 nmi (16,901 km) flight in 2002.

Following refueling in Dhaka, the crew continued eastbound and returned to Seattle 42 hours and 26 minutes after their initial departure, completing the fastest around-the-world trip for the same weight class at 470 knots (871 km/h). There was no previous around-the-world speed record for this weight class.
Jim Albaugh, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, welcomed Gaffney to an informal ceremony in Everett attended by more than 2,000 employees.

"These world records demonstrate what we have been saying about the 787 all along – it is a world-class product. The airlines told us they wanted an airplane that was fuel-efficient, durable and capable," said Albaugh. "That's what we are delivering with the Dreamliner."
Gaffney told employees, "Around-the-world records are extremely challenging, and Boeing should be very proud of the successful world and national records they achieved with these flights.  We were proud to have had the opportunity to record and certify them."

He presented the certificates to two of the six pilots who flew the record-setting missions. Capt. Rod Skaar led the crew, which included former 787 chief pilot Capt. Mike Carriker.
"It's an honor to receive these certificates on behalf of all of the men and women of The Boeing Company," said Skaar. "It takes an amazing amount of talent and perseverance to create an all-new airplane. A lucky few of us get to fly the airplane. We are always well aware that we are carrying the pride of the entire company as we go."

More Information

Boeing 787 DreamlinerThe 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. Fifty-nine customers have 865 Dreamliners on order. The first five 787s have been delivered to ANA (All Nippon Airways) and are performing well in services.
National Aeronautic AssociationThe National Aeronautic Association is the oldest national aviation organization in the United States. A non-profit association, NAA is "dedicated to the advancement of the art, sport and science of aviation in the United States," according to its Mission Statement. The core of the organization is its members; thousands of individuals, organizations, and corporations representing all segments of American aviation. NAA encompasses all areas of flight from skydiving and models to commercial airlines, military aircraft, and spaceflight.
NAA is the official record-keeper for United States aviation. The organization provides observers for many record attempts and compiles the data necessary to certify aviation and spaceflight records of all kinds.

Boeing Media

Fuselage issue prompts Boeing to inspect Dreamliners

Boeing Co. has discovered a flaw in fuselage sections that may affect 55 of its new 787 Dreamliner jets and slow some deliveries, James Albaugh, Boeing’s chief executive officer of commercial airplanes, said Wednesday.

The Dreamliner is an all-new commercial jet that is largely made of lightweight carbon composites rather than sheets of aluminum. The plane made its first passenger flight with All Nippon Airways in October, but it was more than three years late because of design problems and supplier issues.

The latest problem, called “delamination,” occurs when laminated composite materials begin to separate.
“It’s something we can address in a short period of time and it will impact some short-term deliveries,” Albaugh told Bloomberg News and other reporters  Wednesday in Singapore. The Dreamliner is a twin-aisle aircraft that seats 210 to 290 passengers. Chicago-based Boeing says the jet offers airlines savings because of new fuel-efficient engines and composite structure.

Through January, Boeing has taken 870 orders for the Dreamliner from airlines and aircraft leasing firms around the world. The company has delivered five of the aircraft. At the round table, Albaugh said that the delamination problem was fixable and that it shouldn’t affect overall deliveries this year. “In terms of the number of deliveries for the year, it shouldn’t have any impact at all,” he said.

Aviation News Daily

Boeing Decision On 787-10 Likely This Year

Boeing hopes to make a decision this year on the 787-10 and aims to ensure that this larger-capacity 787 avoids cannibalizing sales of the 777, another family of Boeing aircraft that also may be getting new models, the 777-8X and 777-9X.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes CEO Jim Albaugh said, “We will do the 787-10 by all likelihood. We’re now working through design concepts. Assuming the customer interest is there, later this year [a decision will be made], and we will have something to offer toward the end of the year.” He says the 787-10 will have a shorter range than the -9 but will be able to carry 40 more passengers, so “the economics are very good.”

The fact that the 787-10 is a stretch of the 787-9 means it will be in the realm of the 777 in terms of seating capacity. Albaugh, however, suggests otherwise. “We think we’ve got a good separation between the models. There’s 15% separation between the models. We’ve spread the sizing between them, so we don’t cannibalize any one aircraft.”

There have been some reports about a 777-8LX model, which promises more range, but Albaugh is dismissive. “I’ve seen something on a chart mentioning that, but I am focused on the 777-9X and 777-8X,” he says, referring to the new stretched version of the 777-300ER and 777-200, respectively. Albaugh was speaking to Aviation Week in Singapore yesterday during a media roundtable.
Industry executives tell Aviation Week that Boeing recently issued a request for proposals (RFP) for a powerplant for the 777 aircraft in development. Albaugh would neither confirm nor deny that such an RFP has been issued.

He says the 777-8X and 777-9X are hugely important to the company. Boeing sold 200 777s last year, and the aircraft is unbeatable in terms of efficiency, asserts Albaugh. But he also says Boeing is mindful of the fact that Airbus is planning the A350-1000, “so we want to ensure we continue to have the more capable aircraft.” Capability refers to many factors, such as range, dispatch reliability, maintenance costs and cost per seat, he adds. He declines to disclose details on the 777-9X, except to say “it will be a significant improvement over the 777-300ER.”

As for the 737 MAX, Albaugh says, “I hope we can have a couple of thousand orders before we deliver the first aircraft.” Boeing already has secured firm orders for the 737-8 and 737-9. Albaugh says it also has secured a 737-7 customer, but has yet to disclose who that is.
Albaugh declines to say when the 737 MAX specifications will be locked, but asserts they are already effectively firmed up because Boeing is giving MAX customers guarantees when it comes to the specs. He also says, “I don’t want to over-promise and under-deliver. I want to ensure that it is on spec and delivered on time.” Boeing has learned from the lessons of the 787 program, he adds.
Boeing has started delivering 787-8s, but has had to do some post-production fixes to the aircraft in response to concerns about delamination.

Aviation Week  

Boeing Announces Next Segment of 787 Dream Tour

EVERETT, Wash., Feb. 22, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) will conduct the fourth segment of the 787 Dream Tour beginning March 1. Stops will include visits to cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
In addition, the Dream Tour airplane, ZA003, will be featured at the FIDAE Air Show in Santiago, Chile, in late March to kick off the fifth segment of the tour.
"During the first three segments of the tour, we've had almost 25,000 visitors come through the airplane," said Scott Fancher, vice president and general manager, 787 program. "Our customers, partners, employees and the finance and leasing communities have all expressed their delight with the airplane."
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 dim-able 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.

Boeing Media