Boeing makes first commercial delivery of 787 Dreamliner
29 Sep 2011
Tokyo: With Boeing making the first delivery of its futuristic and long-awaited 787 Dreamliner aircraft to launch customer All Nippon Airways, the first commercial model touched down in Tokyo early on Wednesday. The aircraft was welcomed by hundreds of aviation fans, some of whom had spent the night at the airport in order to witness the arrival of the first unit of this model.
The delivery comes three years behind schedule.
The first twin-engine, carbon-composite, jetliner, cruised in under a clear autumn sky before smoothly landing at around 9:04 a.m local time (0004 GMT). The blue and white fuselage had a big 787 emblazoned across its 58-metre (190 ft) body.
Boeing has a backlog of 821 orders for the plane, which promises a 20 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency.
The aircraft boasts the latest features which will allow passengers to experience a more comfortable flight and includes improved cabin air, larger windows that can be electronically dimmed and, in a nod to Japanese sensibilities, toilets with bidets.
