Air NZ's first Dreamliner takes shape
The Boeing 787-9 is 6m longer than the existing controversial aircraft.
Boeing says it has begun final assembly of the first 787-9 Dreamliner, a bigger version of the controversial aircraft and destined for Air New Zealand.
The first 50 delivered 787-8s were grounded for three months this year after problems with overheating batteries. Most are now back in service.
Mark Jenks, vice president, 787 Airplane Development, Boeing Commercial Airplanes says the aircraft began taking shape on schedule on May 30 in Everett, Washington state.
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 of the 787 programme.
The 787-9 has a 6m longer fuselage than the 787-8 and will carry 40 more passengers an additional 300 nautical miles (555km) while using 20% less fuel than similarly sized aircraft.
First flight of the 787-9 is scheduled for the second half of 2013, with delivery to Air New Zealand set for early 2014. Boeing says 20 airlines have ordered 355 787-9s, accounting for 40% of all 787 orders.
NBR staff
Mon, 03 Jun 2013
Mon, 03 Jun 2013
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Air NZ's first Dreamliner takes shape
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