B787, World's First Mainly Composite Commercial Aircraft

[Doug Robertson]

The first Boeing 787 Dreamliner is scheduled to enter airline service in May, 2008. The B787 series is the world's first mainly composite construction super efficient commercial airliner. The aircraft will provide passengers with a better flying experience featuring significant improvements in passenger amenities.

The internal air will be cleaner, there will be larger windows, a lower cabin altitude and higher humidity. The largely composite aircraft will be lighter, use less fuel per passenger than similar size aircraft, produce fewer carbon emissions and will be quieter on takeoff and landings. One could consider the Boeing 787 Dreamliner series to be the most advanced commercial passenger airliners available soon.

I was an early passenger on the Boeing 747 shortly after its introduction into airline service by Pan Am, as I recall, flying in April 1970, Los Angeles to Honolulu and return. The 747 was instantly recognized worldwide for its extreme size, (the British promoted it as "Jumbo") but it was and remains of conventional aluminum monocoque construction. The Boeing 787 promises to revolutionize airline economy of operation and passenger satisfaction. We shall see.
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[Doug Robertson]

Boeing just announced today the delivery of the first 787 Dreamliner will be delayed six months. So, no airline introduction in May 2008.
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[Doug Robertson]

Boeing has announced the B787 Dreamliner is back on original schedule with first flight expected in early 2008 after first engine runup now expected in January, 2008. Airline deliveries are now expected by end of 2008. Another plus is that the FAA and Boeing have agreed on the flight test plan in advance of the B787 first flight, and this is a first for Boeing.
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