Boeing and Kenya Airways have celebrated the delivery of the carrier’s first 787 Dreamliner.

The airplane departed Paine Field in Everett for a 7,800 nautical mile non-stop flight to Kenya Airways’ home base in Nairobi at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

The 787 will form the backbone of the airline’s future long-haul fleet, providing greater range, improved efficiencies and outstanding passenger comfort.

“The delivery of our first ever 787 Dreamliner not only opens a new chapter for our airline, but also for Kenya,” said Titus Naikuni, chief executive officer, Kenya Airways.

“The 787 will enable Kenya Airways to explore new markets, improve its economic performance, provide passengers with revolutionary comfort, while continuing to contribute towards the sustainable development of Africa.”

The 787 is the world’s most technologically advanced airplane with composite materials making up 50 per cent of the primary structure by weight, including the fuselage and wing.

In addition to bringing big-jet ranges to midsize airplanes, the 787 will provide Kenya Airways with unmatched fuel efficiency, using 20 per cent less fuel than today’s similarly sized airplanes

Passengers travelling on Kenya Airways’ 787 will experience the passenger-pleasing features of the Dreamliner such as larger, electronically-dimmable windows and larger overhead luggage bins.

During flight the 787 is pressurized to a lower cabin altitude, has higher humidity levels, advanced air filtration and smoother-ride technology to make the flying experience more comfortable and allow passengers to arrive at their destination more refreshed.