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British Airways has taken delivery of its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.

The aircraft’s parts were manufactured globally and assembled at a factory in Seattle, US.

British Airways has ordered 22 787-9 models, has a backlog of 12 B787-10s, and Boeing has delivered eight 787-8s so far.

The new 787-9 aircraft will fly the London-Delhi route from this month.

This aeroplane series has an extended fuselage structure, greater than its predecessors, as well as seating for 242 to 335 passengers who can choose to fly in four-class arrangements, namely Club World, World Traveller Plus, World Traveller, and the new First Class.

The aircraft has eight seats in first class and offers facilities such as an ottoman beside an adjustable footstool, with ample space for personal items, shoes and handbags, an individual space for jackets and coats, and a locker for important documents and gadgets.

"British Airways has become the first European airline to install the top-class cabin on a Dreamliner."

With this aeroplane addition, British Airways has become the first European airline to install the top-class cabin on a Dreamliner, with China Southern being the first internationally to use the facility.

The 787-9 offers lower fuel consumption and emissions, and is claimed to burn 20% less fuel than the 787-8 model.

The aeroplane also features modern LED lighting, large windows, lower cabin altitude and cleaner air.

To date, Boeing has delivered 304 787 Dreamliners to customers worldwide. The company previously faced difficulties when designing the Dreamliner, according to Zacks Equity Research.

The model has been linked to high production costs and delays.

Image: British Airways first 787 from Boeing. Photo courtsey of Boeing.