What can passengers expect when they fly on a Boeing Co. 787 jet?
On Wednesday, the company gave journalists a sneak peak inside their new Dreamliner airplane.
The third flight test 787 aircraft is equipped with seats, just like air travelers will see when the highly anticipated, mostly composite jet enters commercial service later this year.
The interior of Boeing’s 787 has several features that set it apart from other widebody commercial airplanes: larger windows, more overhead space, LED lighting and the feel of a more open layout.
That’s a feeling Boeing and its airline customers are counting on. The company says that the improved passenger experience will increase revenue for the airlines that fly its 787.
“Business passengers seek out the products they like,” said Kent Craver, Boeing’s regional director of passenger satisfaction and revenue.
Boeing usually doesn’t go to such lengths to test the interior of its aircraft, said Tom Galantowicz, director of 787 interiors. However, the company wants to prove to its customers that the 787 really will deliver a better flying experience for airplane passengers.
Despite Boeing’s efforts to improve flying for travelers, it remains an airline’s choice on how closely the seats are laid out and how comfortable those seats are.
Boeing plans to put its third 787 in the air this month. The company already has two 787s in flight testing.
If all goes as planned, Boeing will deliver the first Dreamliner to Japan’s All Nippon Airways late this year, more than two years behind schedule.
On Wednesday, Scott Fancher, general manager of the 787 program, said that flight testing, which began with first flight on Dec. 15, is going well.
“The airplane is performing in the air really well,” he said.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
