The Boeing Co. has begun assembly of United Airlines’ first Dreamliner, the airline said Wednesday.
“We are proud to be the first North American airline to receive the 787, which will be a game changer for the new United and the industry,” said Jeff Smisek, CEO of United Airlines.
United expects to receive this first 787, which is under assembly in Everett, in 2012.
Boeing said Wednesday that it had wrapped up flight tests on its 787 that will be powered by Rolls-Royce engines. The jet maker still has some flight tests to do on 787s that will be powered by General Electric engines.
Boeing expects to hand over the first Dreamliner next month to Japan’s All Nippon Airways after more than three years of delays.
The first United 787 will be configured with 36 flat-bed seats in business, 63 extra-legroom seats in economy plus and 120 seats in economy.
“The 787 will be a very comfortable, customer pleasing aircraft, and with its range, fuel efficiency and superb operating economics,” Smisek said.
United Continental Holdings is the holding company for both United and Continental airlines. Both carriers have 25 787s each on order.
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