First Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner enters final production stages
Boeing has begun final assembly of the first 787-9 Dreamliner.
The newest member of the 787 family began taking shape on schedule in Everett, Washington, when Boeing started joining large sections of the super-efficient jet.
“From the start, the entire 787-9 team has focused relentlessly on execution so that we fulfill the commitments to our customers,” said Mark Jenks, vice president, 787 Airplane Development, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.
“Integrating the 787-9 into our production system on time is another clear sign that we are well prepared and well positioned for the work ahead.
“Boeing’s global partners delivered the first 787-9 sections to final assembly on or ahead of schedule, and strong progress continues beyond, with major assembly under way on the other flight-test airplanes.
“The dedication, quality and skill of our partners are helping drive our disciplined performance,” said Jenks.
Boeing will build the first three 787-9s on its Temporary Surge Line in Everett to allow for smoother integration of the 787-9 into the production system while continuing to ramp up production across the 787 program.
The 787-9 will complement and extend the 787 family, offering airlines the ability to grow routes opened with the 787-8.
With the fuselage stretched by 20 feet (six metres), the 787-9 will carry 40 more passengers an additional 300 nautical miles (555 kilometres) while using 20 per cent less fuel than similarly sized airplanes.
The 787-9 leverages the visionary design of the 787-8, offering the features passengers prefer such as large, dimmable windows, large stow bins, modern LED lighting, higher humidity, a lower cabin altitude, cleaner air and a smoother ride.