Delivery marks first of 37 787s ordered by airline

SEATTLE, May 19, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Boeing (NYSE: BA) delivered the first 787 Dreamliner to Air Canada, the first airline in Canada to fly the Dreamliner. The airplane, the first of Air Canada’s 37 787s on order for delivery through 2019, departed Paine Field in Everett, Wash. today on its delivery flight to Toronto.

“The 787 Dreamliner will immediately make a dramatic improvement to our fleet capabilities,” said Calin Rovinescu, President and CEO, Air Canada. “The improvement in fuel use is extremely exciting for us. The range and economics unlock new destinations for customers, who will love the innovative look and comfort onboard.”

Air Canada has announced it will use the 787 on its Toronto–Tel Aviv routes, as well as launch a new destination – Tokyo’s Haneda Airport. The 787 is 20 percent more fuel efficient than similar-sized airplanes it will replace in Air Canada’s fleet.

“The 787 Dreamliner is a wonderful addition to Air Canada’s fleet,” said Brad McMullen, vice president of North America Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “The 787 will enable Air Canada to connect Canada and the world, while improving the flying experience of passengers as well as the company’s bottom line.”

Air Canada’s 787 launches the airlines’ new International Business Class Cabin with 20 seats. The airplane offers 21 seats in Air Canada’s Premium Economy Cabin and 210 seats in Air Canada Economy. Customers will be more comfortable with improved lighting, bigger windows, larger overhead bins, lower cabin altitude and enhanced ventilation systems, among other features.

Made from composite materials, the 787 Dreamliner is the first mid-size airplane capable of flying long-range routes and will allow airlines to open new, non-stop routes preferred by the traveling public. In addition to providing airlines with unprecedented fuel economy and low operating costs, the 787 features a host of new technologies that greatly enhance the passenger experience.

To support Air Canada’s 787 Dreamliners, Boeing will provide a comprehensive suite of support and services through its Commercial Aviation Services business. Air Canada will receive flight and maintenance training and in-flight pilot training services. Boeing provides Air Canada’s fleet with crew planning solutions; electronic charting for electronic flight bags; Maintenance Performance Toolbox, a digital real-time-information tool that enables quick resolution of airplane maintenance issues; and Direct Routes and Wind Updates services for more efficient flights to reduce fuel consumption.

Source and photo: Boeing