More than 500 employees representing the 787 program walked alongside the all-new jetliner to present it to ANA executives as a crowd of thousands looked on.
The signing comes after years of program delays (ATW Daily News, Aug. 18). Flyaway of the airplane to Tokyo is scheduled Tuesday morning from Paine Field in Everett, Washington state.
Boeing chairman, president and CEO Jim McNerney called the 787 “the biggest innovation in commercial aviation since the Boeing 707 introduced the world to passenger jet travel more than 50 years ago. I want to thank ANA and all the employees of Boeing and our partner companies for the talent, technology and teamwork that have brought this game-changing airplane to life."
During the ceremony, Boeing Commercial Airplanes president and CEO Jim Albaugh presented a ceremonial key to ANA CEO Shinichiro Ito, who said the Dreamliner would “play a key part in ANA’s plans for international expansion.”
"It's not often that we have the chance to make history, do something big and bold that will change the world in untold ways and endure long after we are gone," said Albaugh. "That's what the 787 Dreamliner is and what ANA and Boeing have done together—build what truly is the first new airplane of the 21st century."
The 787 features a host of technologies including composite materials, more electric systems, advanced aerodynamics and modern engines to make the 787 more fuel efficient and provide lower operating costs. It is the first mid-size airplane capable of flying long-range routes, enabling airlines to open new, nonstop routes.
ANA Group announced its first 787 regular domestic service will be routes from Tokyo Haneda to Okayama and Hiroshima, both beginning Nov. 1. It will also operate a special charter flight between Tokyo Narita and Hong Kong Oct. 26-27.
Story: Air Transport World - Photos Courtesy FlightBlogger
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