I see that Boeing has finally started to roll out its much anticipated Dreamliner range with the base model of the 787 family, the 787-8 being delivered to airlines and making star guest appearances to raise excitement and anticipation levels.
The all new 787 series has carbon fibre skin that is strong but lightweight – meaning it uses about 20 percent less fuel than other planes of the same size.
Air quality within the cabin has been improved using new technology and cabin pressure has been increased, so it resembles a plane flying at 6,000 feet, rather than 8,000 giving passengers more comfort.
The cabin windows are larger and at higher eye level so passengers can maintain a view of the horizon. The windows use auto-dimming "smart glass" that reduces cabin glare while maintaining transparency. Cabin lighting uses LEDs in three colors instead of fluorescent tubes, allowing 128 mood colour combinations.
And with those sexy swept-back wings, it looks fantastic!
Air New Zealand will be the launch customer for the new blinged-out "stretched" 787-9 that has a lengthened fuselage, seating 250–290 in three classes with a range of up to 15,750 km.
In 2004 Air New Zealand ordered eight long-range Boeing 787-9 with an expected delivery date in late 2010.
The project has been ravaged with development delays and expected delivery is now tentatively scheduled for late 2013. With the world's economy tanking, this has probably played into Air New Zealand's hands as they have been able to negotiate with Boeing compensation that includes generous lease terms and discounts on other aircraft.
There has been much media about the delays with the blame often pointed at Boeing's adoption of a radical fractionised global supply chain where components, build and design teams are scattered across the globe. The coordination of a huge web of suppliers and having to cope with differing jurisdictions have turned the Dreamliner project into an unwieldy logistical nightmare.
The production and design envelope is obviously being pushed to the extreme as Boeing attempts to out muscle their main rival Airbus that are also developing their own cutting edge new aircraft. This competition can only drive the demand for travel skyward and it is pleasing to see the media scrum and excitable interest from the public that is comparable to earlier glory days of aviation with every new aircraft release.
Aircraft voyeurs will enjoy today's coverage of a spanking-brand-new Boeing 787-8 'Dreamliner' touching down at Auckland Airport.
