Boeing 787 Dreamliner operators are still publicly bullish about the new type and understand there always problems with a new type of aircraft. Each operator, and soon-to-be operators, are standing steady with their orders despite three recent episodes involving the aircraft.

ANA was forced to cancel a 787 Dreamliner scheduled flight from Yamaguchi to Tokyo due to brake problems according to this report by Reuters.

Boeing remains “extremely confident” in the aircraft despite the recent incident. Boeing believes it can work through the issues as there are many redundant systems to insure safety.

Read the full report: CLICK HERE

Copyright Photo: Boeing. Batik Air, Lion Air’s new subsidiary, will be a future operator of the 787.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) (Washington) is expected to announce today a complete review of the electrical system on board the Boeing 787 Dreamliner due to the recent incidents according to this report by Bloomberg Businessweek. The aircraft is not expected to be grounded.

Read the full report: CLICK HERE

The new type was also involved in two no-related incident today.

Read the full report from Reuters: CLICK HERE

Boeing today the following statement:

“Boeing is confident in the design and performance of the 787. It is a safe and efficient airplane that brings tremendous value to our customers and an improved flying experience to their passengers.

The airplane has logged 50,000 hours of flight and there are more than 150 flights occurring daily. Its in-service performance is on par with the industry’s best-ever introduction into service – the Boeing 777. Like the 777, at 15 months of service, we are seeing the 787′s fleet wide dispatch reliability well above 90 percent.

More than a year ago, the 787 completed the most robust and rigorous certification process in the history of the FAA. We remain fully confident in the airplane’s design and production system.

Regular reviews of program and technical progress are an important part of the validation and oversight process that has created today’s safe and efficient air transportation system. While the 787′s reliability is on par with the best in class, we have experienced in-service issues in recent months and we are never satisfied while there is room for improvement. For that reason, today we jointly announced with the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) the start of a review of the 787′s recent issues and critical systems.

We welcome the opportunity to conduct this joint review. Our standard practice calls on us to apply rigorous and ongoing validation of our tools, processes and systems so that we can always be ensured that our products bring the highest levels of safety and reliability to our customers.

Just as we are confident in the airplane, we are equally confident in the regulatory process that has been applied to the 787 since its design inception. With this airplane, the FAA conducted its most robust certification process ever. We expect that this review will complement that effort.”

Ethiopian Airlines (Addis Ababa) according to this report by Reuters citing two airline sources, will be the first airline to resume scheduled passenger operations of the Boeing 787 with a flight to Nairobi now scheduled for Saturday, April 27.

Air India (Mumbai) should follow after Ethiopian Airlines.

Read the full report: CLICK HERE

Copyright Photo: Nick Dean/AirlinersGallery.com. Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner ET-AOR (msn 34746) lands at Everett (Paine Field).

Ethiopian Airlines: 

Ethiopian Airlines (Addis Ababa) as planned, put its first Boeing 787 back into revenue service yesterday (April 27) on the Addis Ababa-Nairobi route. All 787s were grounded on January 16.

Read the full report from Reuters: CLICK HERE

Copyright Photo: TMK Photography. Boeing 787-8 ET-AOP (msn 34744) climbs away from Toronto (Pearson).

Ethiopian Airlines: 

Thomson Airways (London-Luton) will introduce its new Boeing 787-8 on July 9 between London (Gatwick) and Cancun and Glasgow and Sanford (updated) per Airline Route. The airline now expects to take delivery of its first 787 at the end of this month.

Copyright Photo: Nick Dean. The first, the pictured Boeing 787-8 G-TUIA (msn 34422), lands back at Paine Field near Everett after a test flight.

Thomson Airways: 

ANA (All Nippon Airways) (Tokyo) today resumed Boeing 787-8 passenger flights on the Sapporo-Tokyo (Haneda) route. The airline is gradually phasing in the previously grounded airliner type with five “non-scheduled” domestic routes. The airline issued this statement:

ANA, Japan’s largest airline, will operate five non-scheduled, domestic flights on its Boeing 787 Dreamliner between May 26 and May 31. This is in advance of the resumption of scheduled 787 services from June 1, 2013. These non-scheduled services are being operated in anticipation of high passenger demand. ANA has implemented modifications to all 17 of its 787 aircraft and a total of 170 proving flights and cockpit crew training have been safely completed. Osamu Shinobe, President and CEO of ANA, said “The safety of passengers is our number one priority. Modifications for all 787 have been implemented and ANA has undertaken its own additional testing. The 787 remains a game-changing aircraft, important from an environmental, efficiency and passenger comfort perspective.”

<Schedule of additional flights with 787> * All schedules are subject to approval by relevant authorities.

Copyright Photo: Nick Dean/AirlinersGallery.com. Boeing 787-8 JA818A (msn 42243) taxies at Everett (Paine Field) (please click on the photo for the full-size view).

ANA: 

Video: By AirlineReporter.com.

Thomson Airways (London-Luton and Manchester) and Boeing announced the delivery of the airline’s first Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The airplane, the first of eight 787s Thomson Airways has on order, is the first to be delivered to a UK airline. 787-8 G-TUIA was handed over on May 30 followed by G-TUIB yesterday (May 31).

Thousands gathered to watch Thomson’s 787 Dreamliner arrive at Manchester Airport, completing its delivery flight from Paine Field in Everett, Wash. Senior Thomson and Boeing executives, including Thomson Managing Director Chris Browne and Boeing Commercial Airplanes Vice President of Marketing Randy Tinseth, were onboard the delivery flight.

“After much anticipation, we are very excited to welcome the 787 Dreamliner to our fleet and as the first airline in the UK, hope our customers will enjoy the unique experience of this revolutionary aircraft,” said Browne. “The extended flying range of the Dreamliner also unlocks a host of new and exciting holiday options for our customers, increasing the range of long-haul destinations available with Thomson Airways from four UK airports. Customers will be amazed at the unique look, feel and service – all of which will ensure the unique Thomson holiday experience starts as soon as they step on board this fabulous new aircraft.”

The aircraft was welcomed on arrival at Manchester by Todd Nelp, vice president of European sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes and Ken O’Toole, Chief Commercial Officer for MAG, owner of Manchester Airport.

On July 8, Thomson’s first long-haul Dreamliner flights will operate from Manchester to Florida (Sanford) and Glasgow to Cancun. Thomson will also operate services from London Gatwick and East Midlands airports. Later this year, the airline will introduce direct flights to Phuket, Thailand from the UK.

The Thomson 787 Dreamliner will carry 291 passengers and is configured with 47 seats in the airline’s Premium Club cabin and 244 seats in the Economy Club cabin.

Thomson Airways is part of the TUI Travel PLC and is the UK’s third largest airline operating 58 aircraft.

Copyright Photo: Nick Dean/AirlinersGallery.com. Boeing 787-8 G-TUIB (msn 34423) departs from Paine Field near Everett (please click on the photo for the full-size view).

Thomson Airways: 

Short Haul and Long Haul Routes from Manchester:

Video: The first 787 arrives at MAN:

Video: Thomson is the first operator of the 787 in the UK.

British Airways‘ (London) first Boeing 787-8 G-ZBJB (msn 38610), made it’s first flight yesterday afternoon (June 8) at Paine Field near Everett.

Two hundred and fourteen customers will enjoy the comforts of the new British Airways 787-8 Dreamliner when delivered.

The 24 new British Airways 787-8s will feature the elegant cabin designs fitted on British Airways’ new Boeing 777-300 ER aircraft.

All eight 787-8s will feature a new Club World 2:3:2 layout, the latest generation World Traveller and World Traveller Plus seats.  The exact seating plans of another 16 787-9s on order have yet to be finalized, they could have three or four-cabin configurations.

British Airways will take delivery of its first 787-8 and Airbus A380 this summer.

The British Airways 787-8 will have 35 seats for customers in the new Club World triple configuration of 2:3:2; 25 seats in a World Traveller Plus layout of 2:3:2; and a further 154 seats for those travelling in World Traveller, with a 3:3:3 configuration.

Both new aircraft will also feature the airline’s latest Thales inflight entertainment system, which offers customers 50 percent more movies, 200 percent more TV shows and 200 percent more audio programs and music.

Customers will also benefit from new larger screens in all cabins and an easier to use system with shortcut buttons. They will also be able to connect personal devices, such as laptops and use the in-seat power available for the first time in all cabins.

In 2013, British Airways will take delivery of nine new long haul aircraft. The first British Airways 787 will be delivered shortly. A further three will arrive by the end of the year. The first A380 will be delivered in July, with additional deliveries in August and October. Two additional 777-300 ERs will arrive in September and October 2013.

British Airways has issued this statement:

British Airways is poised to become the first airline in Europe to introduce both the Airbus A380 and the Boeing 787 into its fleet.

The airline will take delivery into the UK of its first two 787s on consecutive days, June 26 and 27, Followed by its first A380 on July 4. The new aircraft will arrive around mid-morning.

Following their arrival, both aircraft types will begin a complex “entry into service” programs at Manston Airport in Kent, customer service trials at Heathrow and short-haul flying for both aircraft, including flights within the UK.

Seats on the A380 are currently on sale for travel from October 15 to Los Angeles and from November 15 to Hong Kong.

Top Copyright Photo: Royal S. King/AirlinersGallery.com. We have two views of this historic event. Boeing 787-8 G-ZBJB (msn 38610) passes the camera at PAE after its successful first flight on June 8, 2013.

Hot New Photos: 

British Airways: 

Bottom Copyright Photo: Nick Dean/AirlinersGallery.com. G-ZBJB arrives back at Paine Field as “Boeing 451″.

Video: A brief interview with Willie Walsh on the new 787:

Ethiopian Airlines (Addis Ababa) has announced that it will become the first African carrier to operate scheduled flights to Seoul (Incheon), the Republic of South Korea effective on June 18, 2013 using the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner.

Ethiopian will fly four weekly services to Incheon International Airport in Seoul and its inaugural flight will coincide with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and South Korea.

Various ministers, ambassadors, high level officials, members of the business community and an Ethiopian cultural troupe will be on-board the inaugural flight. Joint high profile events such as government, business, trade, tourism, cultural and academic forums highlighting the great potential of the relations between the two countries are scheduled to take place in Seoul from June 19-21, 2013.

Seoul will be Ethiopian 73^rd international destination. The inclusion of Seoul into Ethiopian network is part of Ethiopian Vision 2025 of connecting Africa with the major world economic and financial hubs.

Additionally the flag carrier is also using the Boeing 787 to open a new route to São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro in Brazil starting on July 1. The new route will operate three days a week via Lomé-Tokoin Airport in Togo.

Copyright Photo: TMK Photography/AirlinersGallery.com. Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner ET-AOR (msn 34746) departs from Toronto (Pearson).

Ethiopian Airlines: 

Thomson Airways (London-Luton and Manchester) yesterday (June 21) placed its first new Boeing 787-8 into revenue service between London (Gatwick) and Mahon Airport on Menorca.

Thomson Airways: 

British Airways (London) and Boeing (Chicago) today announced the delivery of the UK carrier’s first Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

The British Airways 787 departed Paine Field in Everett, Washington, on Wednesday, June 26, arriving at London’s Heathrow Airport today at 12:10 pm local time. The airplane was welcomed to its Heathrow home by Willie Walsh, chief executive officer ofInternational Airlines Group (IAG), the company that owns British Airways.

British Airways has announced that the airline will operate the 787 from Heathrow to Toronto (Pearson) from September 1 and Heathrow to Newark from October 1.

“The delivery of the first of BA’s 787s is an exciting milestone for Boeing and British Airways,” said Todd Nelp, vice president of European Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.  “The 787 is the most technologically advanced and fuel-efficient commercial jetliner in its class. Its improved lighting, bigger windows, larger overhead bins, lower cabin altitude and cleaner cabin air will offer BA’s passengers an unparalleled flying experience.”

The 787 Dreamliner is composed of lightweight composites and features numerous systems, engine and aerodynamic advancements, with unmatched fuel efficiency using 20 percent less fuel than today’s similarly sized airplanes.  It is the first mid-sized airplane capable of flying long-range routes, providing airlines with unprecedented fuel economy and low operating costs and enabling airlines to open new, non-stop routes preferred by passengers. On a 787 with Rolls-Royce engines, UK companies make about 25 percent of the 787 by value.

The British Airways 787 Dreamliner carries 214 passengers and is configured with 35 seats in Club World, 25 in World Traveller Plus and 154 seats in the World Traveller cabin.

British Airways operates more than 140 Boeing airplanes within its fleet including 52 777s, as well as the world’s largest fleet of 747s with 52.

This is the first of 24 787s British Airways has on order. In addition, IAG recently announced that it will convert 18 787 options to firm orders for British Airways, subject to shareholder agreement. Twelve of these will be 787-10s, meaning British Airways will operate the entire 787 family – the 787-8, 787-9 and 787-10.

British Airways issued this statement:

To celebrate, the airline is launching special fares from both cities to London Heathrow. For travel from Toronto and New York (JFK or Newark), the fares begin at $787 roundtrip in World Traveller (economy). World Traveller Plus, the airline’s premium economy, fares begin from $1290 roundtrip and, continuing the celebrations, Club World business class fares start from $2787 roundtrip. All fares include taxes, fees and carrier charges.

The new 787 routes were announced in association with brand ambassador and star of stage and screen, Kim Cattrall (above). Kim, who born in England and raised in Canada said: “I fly regularly between the UK, Canada and the USA with British Airways and I love their service. I need to be ready to work when I land, so to know that I can fly on their 787s and arrive feeling really rested and refreshed is a definite bonus for me.”

New British Airways Boeing 787 Dreamliners: Benefits for Customers

• Low levels of cabin noise resulting in increased rest for customers.
• A higher humidity level in the cabins reduces the ‘drying effect’ so customers arrive feeling refreshed. This is the result of a difference in pressurization where cabin altitude is the equivalent of 6,000ft; 2,000ft lower than on other aircraft.
• The aircraft’s smooth ride technology provides extra comfort during any turbulence.
• The bespoke lighting in every cabin can be set to reflect the time of day, helping to lull travellers to sleep at night and to wake them in the morning.
• Customers can also enjoy much larger windows, offering views of the horizon from every seat.

Willie Walsh, chief executive of IAG, said: “The 787 is a tremendous, innovative aircraft which sets new standards for environmental performance and operating efficiency and I’m sure British Airways customers will love it.

“The 787 will become a mainstay of the British Airways fleet over the next few years. This is the first of 24 that will arrive by 2017, and we have announced plans to convert further options for the aircraft into firm orders for delivery from 2017, including for the new larger 787-10 version.”

Mitch Preston is British Airways’ first 787 pilot to fly the aircraft from Boeing’s Seattle home toLondon. Preston said: “It was a real pleasure to fly the 787 home to Heathrow today — it’s a joy to operate, and a really smooth ride.

“It’s exceptionally quiet and the cabin environment, combined with the service customers would expect from British Airways, will make for a great experience. I for one can’t wait to welcome our customers on board.”

British Airways has ordered 24 787s, which will arrive over the next four years. The airline has also ordered 12 A380s and six additional Boeing 777-300 ERs. Over the next 12 months, it will take delivery of a new aircraft at the rate of one a fortnight.

 The aircraft orders form the centrepiece of British Airways’ [Pounds]5bn investment in improved customer experience in the air and on the ground. The airline is the first in Europe to operate both the 787 and the A380.

Top Copyright Photo: Nick Dean/AirlinersGallery.com. The pictured 787-8 G-ZBJB (msn 38610) was officially handed over to the carrier on June 25, 2013.

Bottom Copyright Photo: James Mepsted. The first arrival of G-ZBJB this morning at London (Heathrow).

British Airways: 

Norwegian Air Shuttle (Norwegian Long haul) (Oslo) has taken delivery of its first Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. Boeing, International Lease Finance Corporation (ILFC) and Norwegian celebrated several milestones on Thursday (June 27) during a delivery ceremony for a new 787 Dreamliner. It was the first 787 delivered to ILFC and its lessee, Norwegian, which will operate the airplane. The 787 also marked the 700^th airplane Boeing delivered to ILFC.

The delivery to ILFC builds on Boeing’s 40-year relationship with the Los Angeles-based leasing company and largest 787 customer with 74 Dreamliners on order.

Norwegian currently has eight 787s on order through lease agreements and direct deliveries. The carrier will use the 787s to service its new long-haul routes from Oslo and Stockholm to New York (JFK) and Bangkok. In November, the airline also will operate the 787 to Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood from Oslo, Stockholm and Copenhagen.

Copyright Photo: Nick Dean/AirlinersGallery.com. Norwegian’s Boeing 787-8 EI-LNA (msn 35304) with Sonja Henie on the tail is pictured departing Paine Field near Everett yesterday afternoon (June 28) as “Norstar 576″. Norwegian will operate its new Boeing 787s as a separate “Norwegian Long Haul A.S.” (DU/NLH) division.

Norwegian: 

Thomson Airways (London-Luton and Manchester) yesterday (July 8) started its first international Boeing 787 route between Manchester and Sanford, Florida

Copyright Photo: Nik French/AirlinersGallery.com. Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner G-TUIA (msn 34422) approaches the Manchester base for landing.

Thomson Airways: 

Video: Alesha Dixon helped Thomson Airways launch the first flight to Sanford (near Orlando), Florida:

Hainan Airlines (Hainan Airlines Company Ltd.) (Haikou and Beijing) brought its first 787 Dreamliner aircraft to China on July 7 at 11 a.m., when the pictured 787-8 B-2722 (msn 34939) landed at Haikou Meilan International Airport.

Top Copyright Photo: Jim Arlow. B-2722 stopped at Seattle (Boeing Field) on its long journey between Charleston and Haikou.

The airline issued this statement:

With the delivery completed, Hainan Airlines becomes the second Chinese airline with a Boeing 787 Dreamliner as part of its fleet. At the welcoming ceremony, Hainan Airlines simultaneously kicked off the “Fly Your Dreams” program, during which the airlines will hand out hundreds of 787 Dreamliner air tickets to graduating college students and model workers as well as randomly selected romantically-engaged couples and ordinary citizens free of charge, providing an unparalleled flying experience for the lucky recipients.

Copyright Photo: Hainan Airlines. B-2722 in flight.

At 11 a.m., the long-awaited 787 Dreamliner aircraft appeared as a great majestic bird in the distance, grabbing the attention of all present. The golden yellow silhouette of the craft glistened against the azure blue of the sky moments before passing through the “water gate,” washing off the dust accumulated during 13 hours of flight. At last, the plane glided to a smooth stop on the spacious parking apron.

Copyright Photo: Hainan Airlines. B-2722 arrives in Haikou and group poses for this historic photo.

Captain Theodore V. Shropshire of Boeing said at the ceremony, “We are excited to witness the maiden flight of Hainan’s first 787 Dreamliner. Boeing remains committed to providing efficient and safe aircraft and technical support for Hainan Airlines. We look forward to more planes from Boeing joining Hainan Airlines’ fleet.”

Copyright Photo: Jim Arlow. Here is the cabin of B-2722.

Hainan Airline’s first two Boeing 787 Dreamliners will initially be used on three domestic routes: Beijing-Haikou and Beijing-Shanghai, and then, following a three-month trial operation along these routes, will become available for North America’s medium- and long-haul international flights including Beijing-Chicago (O’Hare), Beijing-Seattle/Tacoma and Beijing-Toronto (Pearson), further enhancing Hainan Airlines’ global competitiveness. Hainan Airlines’ first 787 will initially be used on the Beijing-Haikou route, sparking a tourism boom between Hainan and Beijing during the summer travel peak season.

Hainan Airlines celebrated its 20th anniversary this year while also launching the “Fly Your Dreams” program. The arrival of the 787 Dreamliner aircraft marked the start of Hainan Airlines’ journey to a new dream.

After the delivery ceremony, Liu Lu announced the start of the 2013 Hainan Airlines 787 “Fly Your Dreams” program. Lin Tao, Deng Xiaogang the leaders from the government of Hainan province and Li Xianhua, the CEO of HNA Group, stepped on stage and inserted a key into a globe, jointly launching the program.

Copyright Photo: Jim Arlow. Another view of the cabin of B-2722.

The program, broken down into five individual segments themed “Student Dream Comes True,” “Travel Dream Comes True,” “Romance Dream Comes True,” “Flying Dream Comes True” and “North American Dream Comes True” will send hundreds of free 787 flight passenger tickets to students from low-income homes who have participated in the recent college entrance exam; locally-based Party members who have performed “above and beyond”; model laborers; air travel aficionados; long distance couples; and ordinary citizens. The program will allow students to travel to their colleges, model laborers to visit Beijing, ordinary citizens to fulfill their dream of flying for the first time, air travel enthusiasts to experience the new 787 and long distance couples a chance to reunite. Passengers can participate in Hainan Airlines’ ” Fly Your Dreams ” program by visiting the company’s official website at www.hnair.com, following Hainan Airlines on the company’s official microblog on Weibo and its official chat account on China’s instant voice messaging app We Chat.

Afterwards HNA’s vice president Huang Qijun handed out the first batch of round trip air tickets between Haikou and Beijing to Hainan-based model workers, who will take the maiden voyage 787 flight to Beijing, realizing their travel dreams.

“Hainan Airlines’ first 787 Dreamliner will take its first commercial maiden voyage on July 11. The most important mission of this flight is for the airline to achieve its dream plan and realize that dream through the 787 Dreamliner, while providing a safe and comfortable onboard experience for each traveler achieving their own personal dream by being on the flight,” Liu Lu added.

A Boeing 737-800 made the airline’s first maiden flight between Haikou and Beijing 20 years ago, and now the airline has chosen another Boeing model, the new 787, to upgrade this route. The airline has continuously added aircraft, from a mere two when the route was first launched, to over 120 craft today. In those 20 years, Hainan Airlines has successively added over 100 Boeing planes to its fleet, becoming an important partner of Boeing in China. The Hainan Airlines’ fleet is now providing 500 routes connecting nearly 90 cities around the world. Hainan Airlines plans to upgrade the overall quality of the fleet through the introduction of more advanced models, expand the route network, consistently add routes to meet customer demand and help with China’s economic and social development as the airline and the country continue to modernize. The 787 Dreamliner addition to the fleet is another step in the airline’s efforts to perfect its five-star level of services and create the ideal flying experience for passengers through its advanced aviation technologies and design concepts.

Sixteen “787 Dream Angels” sporting Hainan Airlines’ grey uniforms made an appearance at the ceremony, and were awarded “Golden Wing” hair accessories by the company. The accessories each have the number “787″ embedded in the design, a design which looks like a pair of wings, representing the goodwill behind the realization of Hainan Airlines’ “Golden Dreams.”

The “Dream Angel” crew was selected from more than 3,000 Hainan Airlines crewmembers, and flew on the airline’s first 787 Dreamliner from Charleston, South Carolina in the U.S. to Haikou Meilan International Airport as the plane was being delivered. Each selected crewmember has clocked in thousands of hours of in-flight experience and was chosen for their excellent service skills. Hainan Airlines, by combining its special five-star services with the personalized design of the Boeing 787 aircraft, will enable passengers to partake of an onboard experience akin to a “golden dream.”

In the cabin of the Boeing 787, a flight attendant from the “Dream Angel” crew briefly introduced the customized design of the passenger cabin. With bright red, the representative color of the Chinese nation and its people, as the dominant color, the layout and design of the entire cabin demonstrates Hainan Airlines’ service positioning and brand image as the “The Beauty of the Orient.” The roomy cabin features 213 seats, the lowest number among all the 787 Dreamliners delivered into China. The 36-seat business class cabin is configured in a 2-2-2 layout, with full flat-bed seats and a wide 2.4-meter (95-inch) space separating each seat. The 177-seat economy class cabin with a 3-3-3 seating layout features upgraded seats providing a higher level of comfort. The entire aircraft is equipped with individual 15-inch in-flight entertainment screens and easy access to power supply ports. USB ports are provided in the business class cabin. The newly-designed and lavishly equipped lavatory facilities fully embody the quality goals of Hainan Airlines’ five-star services.

Meanwhile, Hainan Airlines has developed a set of brand new services for passengers on the Boeing 787 aircraft. During the first week following the maiden flight, every passenger will have the opportunity to enjoy special “Golden Dream” welcome drinks as well as “Dream Cookies” specially supplied for 787 Dreamliners. The cookies will also contain “fortune cookie” messages designed to amuse passengers. In addition, Hainan Airlines offers specially produced 787 Series postcards as part of the “Post Office in the Air” onboard service, enabling passengers to send their messages while airborne and to truly experience the fun of being in flight while partaking of Hainan Airlines’ five-star service.

Hainan Airlines: 

Guest Editor Marcelo F. De Biasi.

Flying the Dreamliner #06JUL13 – Welcome to tomorrow

Guest Editor Marcelo F. De Biasi

This is a special one.  As most out there, having seen the Dreamliner take shape all the way from the very beginning when the airplane was still dubbed 7E7 and looked more like a shark than an actual bird, being able to actually try out the plane that in a sense “we” got to build (remember when Boeing had extensive surveys in place online asking for customer/passenger feedback?) is nothing short of a dream come true.  It’s only been a couple of months since I had the chance to see a Dreamliner live – years after its roll-out – and it certainly wasn’t easy finding a good and “cheap” flight that I could book without having to fly abroad.  Nevertheless, it required some doing as I had to make my way all the way down to Houston (IAH) in order to see this through.  Since the 787 was grounded at the beginning of the year, United Airlines (UA) stopped serving Newark (EWR) with the Dreamliner and didn’t reinstate the flight once the plane was put back into service in June.  My options were to fly from IAH to either Denver (DEN), Los Angeles (LAX) or Chicago (ORD).  Chicago was the “cheaper” option I also wanted to connect at O’Hare International Airport and finally get to know United’s largest hub.  And so my itinerary for a day and half of flying developed into LaGuardia (LGA)-Charlotte (CLT)-IAH (on US Airways on Friday evening), IAH-ORD (the actual Dreamliner flight on United) and finally, ORD-Washington Dulles (IAD)-New York (JFK) (also on United) – the last three flights all on Saturday.  Quite an ordeal “just” to try out the Dreamliner.  I’m sure a number of people think I’m nuts for doing this (admittedly, sometimes I am).

So, was it worth it?  The answer is big fat YES.  I would do it all over again.  The Dreamliner sets new standards in flying.  From a financial/operational efficiency standpoint there is little doubt that the 787 is a game changer and will remain largely unchallenged for some time – yes, the A350-900 has initiated its test flying program, but it is also slightly larger than the 787 and is in fact more in the size category of the 777-200/200ER (where the 787-10 will probably also steal the show now that it has been officially launched).  

From a customer perspective, I can tell you that 787 is by far the best airplane in existence today. Its cabin is spacious, elegant, functional, and modern.  The windows are larger in area than any other civil aircraft in-service or in development.  Window shades no longer exist, these have been replaced with electrochromism-based smart glass that allow passengers (and flight attendants alike) to dim the light to their liking (five levels in total) – and this really works like a charm.

As if the extra spacious feeling in the cabin – unlike anything I’ve experienced on any other plane I’ve flown on so far – wasn’t enough, the more humid cabin is simply perfect.  While you might not sense any immediate difference to another airplane, it’s when you connect onto another “normal” airplane afterwards that it hits you and you realize what a difference the cabin of the 787 makes.  Quite astonishing.  Now, I know that pretty much all of you have at least read about these advanced features – and some of you have already tried the Dreamliner out yourselves and will know what I’m talking about here – but, trust me when I say that Boeing and 787 customers are not exaggerating when they claim that the Dreamliner is tomorrow’s airplane, today.

Setting my “avgeek” mentality aside for a moment, as a regular passenger I would certainly opt for a Dreamliner flight in the future whenever an option is available, particularly if flying long-haul.  It sounds a bit extreme, but in all fairness, this is how good of a passenger experience the Dreamliner offers its customers (of course, provided the airline which chooses to operate the 787 doesn’t fit the plane with a 28 inch pitch in Economy Class).

Last but not least, the Dreamliner is also incredibly quiet – almost as silent as the A380 (credit where it’s due).  

I also need to say a little something about United.  On my 787 flight between IAH and ORD, the onboard service was very good – it was noticeable that the crew was excited about their new “toy”.   Nevertheless, only serving beverages (no spirits) on a 2 and a half hour flight in Economy Class (not even peanuts) is not really what you would expect of a traditional legacy carrier.  In any case, overall it was a top notch job by the enthusiastic “Dreamliner crew”.

Please enjoy a few photos of the flight – and of that INCREDIBLE looking wing, truly a work of art – and a short video I took of the final approach into Chicago O’Hare Airport.

Video: Landing in ORD

By the way, in case any of you were wondering, the registration of the plane I flew was N27903 (msn 34823), delivered factory fresh to United on December 20, 2012.

Copyright Photos: Marcelo F. De Biasi. All rights reserved.

About the Guest Editor:

ABOUT

What’s there to say about me? I’m just your average “AvGeek”. Having been bitten by the aviation bug shortly after I was born – the first words to come out of my mouth were apparently “VARIG” -, some 11 years ago I decided to make the leap to aviation photography. Occasionally, I’ve also been known to write an article or two about aviation. Aside for my obvious love for aviation, I’m also a regular amateur photographer with a nag for history, international politics, branding & marketing, social media, philosophical questions, Formula 1 and quality hard & heavy rock.  Last but not least, I also work for a major network carrier in Network Planning.

IN A NUTSHELL

I’m from: São Paulo, Brazil, currently residing in New York, United States
Favorite Airliner: Boeing 737 Series, Boeing 777 Series, Embraer 190 and 195, MD-11, Lockheed Electra II
Fascinating Airlines: Azul, AirAsia X, Copa Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Norwegian Air Shuttle, Emirates, Lufthansa
Memorable Airports: SDU, CGH, HKG, ZRH, DCA, SSA

Norwegian Air Shuttle (Norwegian.com) (Oslo) is currently operating the pictured Boeing 787-8 EI-LNA (msn 35304) (above) (Antony J. Best) on European routes before it enters its long-haul service career with Norwegian Long haul. EI-LNA was the first 787 for the rapidly-growing low-fare airline and was handed over to the carrier on June 29, 2013.

The Norwegian is operating a “Dreamtour” for its European customers this summer. From July 4 through August 4 the airline is substituting its new 787 on select European routes from Oslo. This includes flights to London (Gatwick) as well as Alicante, Barcelona, Malaga and Nice on the Mediterranean Sea.

Allan Huse booked and flew one of these “Dreamtour” flights, a round trip from London (Gatwick) and Oslo and return.

Asked about his experience and first impressions of the 787, Allan said; “It was very enjoyable and smooth flight. The crew was friendly and knew all about the aircraft and the on board systems. The fare was good at under £100 return. I would recommend a flight on one!”

Allan has also provided these in-flight and cabin photos of EI-LNA from his “Dreamtour”.

Above: The “front-end office” of EI-LNA with the latest state-of-the-art equipment. The crew loves the new “toy”.

Above: EL-LNA is dedicated to Norwegian figure skater and film star Sonja Henie. Her image appears on the tail and also in the inside of the cabin where Norwegian has placed a photo of Sonja on the bulkhead.

Above Two Photos: Even of these short European routes, Norwegian is showing off the mood lighting on EI-LNA.

Above Photo: For those with the perfect window seat, the beautiful sweeping lines of the wing of EI-LNA is apparent.

Top Copyright Photo: Antony J. Best (all others by Allan Huse). Boeing 787-8 EI-LNA prepares to land at London (Gatwick).

Norwegian: 

Video: In Norwegian. Following in the footsteps of Thomson Airways. Norwegian is taking a state-of-the-art aircraft with its lower operating costs and merging it with its low-fare strategy on new leisure routes.

Norwegian Air Shuttle (Oslo) is now targeting August 16 as the date of its first long haul Boeing 787-8 flight. The first Norwegian Long Haul route will now be from Stockholm (Arlanda) to New York (JFK) on August 16 per Airline Route. The airline, as we have reported, has been operating its new 787-8 on short-haul European routes in order for crews to get used to the new type. The new aircraft will also end the lease of HiFly Airbus A330s.

Norwegian is now looking at its routes from the Scandinavian capitals to the United States as its new growth area. The company is also considering a sub-base in either New York or Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood in the future.

Read about the new strategy for News in English: CLICK HERE

Copyright Photo: Stefan Sjogren/AirlinersGallery.com. Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner EI-LNA (msn 35304) lands at Malaga. Malaga is one of the European destinations currently being served with the 787 from Oslo.

Norwegian: 

British Airways (London) has confirmed it will introduce the new Boeing 787 to both Toronto (Pearson) and Newark as the first two 787 routes. The 787 will debut on the London (Heathrow)-Toronto (Pearson) route on September 1 and the Heathrow-Newark route a month later. The new 787s and Airbus A380s will replace the 30 older Boeing 747-400s between 2017 and 2023.

Copyright Photo: Nick Dean/AirlinersGallery.com. Boeing 787-8 G-ZBJB (msn 38610) was handed over by Boeing on June 25 followed by the pictured G-ZBJA (msn 38609) on June 29. Crews are currently undergoing training with both aircraft.

British Airways: 

New Video:

AeroMexico (Mexico) is adding two Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners for its long-range routes. Both aircraft will be leased from ILFC. The first, the pictured 787-8 N961AM (msn 35306), completed its first flight on July 21, 2013. The new jetliner is pictured arriving back at Paine Field yesterday afternoon after the successful first flight.

In other news, AeroMexico has added its fourth daily flight between Houston (Bush Intercontinental) and Mexico City

AeroMexico Connect will operate 99-seat modern Embraer 190 aircraft as follows:

Houston – Mexico City *

Mexico City – Houston *

*Schedules are in local time and subject to change without notice.

Copyright Photo: Nick Dean/AirlinersGallery.com.

AeroMexico: 

Norwegian Air Shuttle (Norwegian.com) (Oslo) will launch its Norwegian Long Haul Boeing 787-8 scheduled service from Stockholm (Arlanda) to both New York (JFK) and Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) on August 15. The airline has been operating the new 787 on inter-European routes from Oslo (Gardermoen).

The Dreamliner will be repositioned to Arlanda on August 11. It is due to arrive at ARN at 1500 local time.

Copyright Photo: Duncan Kirk/AirlinersGallery.com. This dramatic view shows Boeing 787-8 EI-LNA (msn 35304) landing back at Paine Field near Everett, WA.

Norwegian: