China’s national flag carrier becomes the first customer in the nation to operate the airplane.

Boeing and Air China officially unveiled the airline’s first 787-9 Dreamliner to the public at a grand ceremony in Beijing today. The national flag carrier is the first airline in the country to have a 787-9 enter into service.

“The 787-9 Dreamliner employs a multitude of cutting-edge technologies best represented by its electronic handling system and wide application of composite materials,” said Captain Wang Yingnian, chief pilot of Air China. “As such, it enjoys clear advantages such as low fuel consumption, low emission and lower noise, which are highly aligned with the green flying idea that Air China has long been an advocate of.”

This is the first of 15 Dreamliners set to join Air China’s fleet.

“We are very honored that the 787-9 has joined Air China’s national flag carrier fleet,” said Ihssane Mounir, Boeing Commercial Airplanes senior vice president of Northeast Asia Sales, “Carrying the long term partnership between Air China and Boeing, Air China’s 787-9 will provide comfort and convenience for passengers, exceptional fuel efficiency and environmental performance for the airline customers.”

The 787-9 complements and extends the 787 family. With the fuselage stretched by 20 feet (6 meters) over the 787-8, the 787-9 will fly over 40 more passengers an additional 285 nautical miles (830 km) with the same exceptional environmental performance — 20 percent less fuel use and 20 percent fewer emissions than similarly sized airplanes.

The 787-9 leverages the visionary design of the 787-8, offering passengers features such as large windows, large stow bins, modern LED lighting, higher humidity, a lower cabin altitude, cleaner air and a smoother ride.

“We believe the 787-9 will become the backbone of Air China’s international long-haul routes and will play an important role in supporting Air China’s international development strategy,” added Captain Wang.

Airbus press release