Boeing completes maiden flight of second 787-9 Dreamliner

Boeing has successfully completed the first flight of its second 787-9 Dreamliner, a milestone that keeps the company’s 787-9 programme on-track.

The test aircraft, known as ZB002, is the only 787-9 test jet to be fitted with elements of the passenger interior.

The jetliner has tested capabilities such as the environmental control system, along with avionics and other aspects of aircraft performance.

Boeing has carried out a series of ground trials on the second 787-9 aircraft since its completion in late-September, with its maiden flight taking place in the same month to mark the start of the programme.

Boeing completed manufacturing of the 787-9 flight-test fleet, with the first production 787-9 in final assembly.

With the fuselage extended by 20ft over the 787-8, the 787-9 will carry 40 more passengers an additional 300nm.

The aircraft series offers features such as large, dimmable windows, large stow bins, modern LED lighting, higher humidity, a lower cabin altitude and cleaner air.

It consumes 20% less fuel and emits 20% fewer gases, compared with similarly sized aircraft.

The first delivery of the 787-9 to its launch customer Air New Zealand is scheduled for mid-2014.

A total of 26 customers have ordered 396 787-9s so far, accounting for 40% of all 787 orders.

Boeing said that development of the 787-10 aircraft, the latest in the 787 series, is also progressing as planned.

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Image: The test aircraft, known as ZB002, is the only 787-9 test jet to be fitted with elements of the passenger interior. Photo: courtesy of Boeing Company.