Boeing shares soar as 787 first flight draws near

Boeing’s stock has hit a 52-week high today as momentum builds in the company’s 787 jet program.

After more than two years of delay, Boeing is poised to fly its 787 Dreamliner by year’s end as promised by company officials.

Boeing’s shares closed up 2.1 percent today at $55.83 after hitting a high of $55.95. The aerospace company’s previous high was $55.48. Back in 2007, after Boeing rolled out its new 787, shares exceeded $107.

The company’s Dreamliner could take to the skies as early as next week. Over the past week, aviation writers and enthusiasts have peppered the Web with possible first flight dates: Dec. 14, 15, 18, 19 and 22.

Boeing should have results soon from the 787’s static test, which wrapped up last week. Those results are essential in clearing the Dreamliner for flight.