CaptainPilot

Dreamliner Completes Flight Testing for Type Certification

August 23, 2011 |

Boeing completed all flight tests required for type certification of the 787-8 Dreamliner with Rolls-Royce engines on Saturday, Aug. 13. The all-new jetliner is bringing unprecedented levels of fuel economy, maintenance cost improvements, and environmental sensitivity to the marketplace through the use of new technologies including composites, more electric systems, advanced aerodynamics and the latest advancements in propulsion.

“We are very pleased with the performance of the airplane during the Function & Reliability and Extended Operations testing over the last month,” said Scott Fancher, vice president and general manger of the 787 program. “The Dreamliner continues to demonstrate that we will indeed delivery a truly revolutionary airplane that will be a game changer in the marketplace.”

The final flight occurred Saturday onboard ZA102, the ninth 787 to be built. Capt. Mike Carriker, chief pilot for the 787 program, brought ZA102 back to its home base at Paine Field in Everett at 1:58 p.m. (Pacific Time) following a 90 minute flight that originated in Billings, Mont. During the flight, the 14-person crew completed simulations of a dispatch with a failed generator and failed fuel flow indication.

“When ZA102 returned to Paine Field, it brought back with it the hopes and dreams of the many thousands of men and women of Boeing and our global partners who have worked so long for this day,” Fancher said. “Their hard work and commitment to this amazing airplane has been a true inspiration. We look forward to making our first delivery to our good friends at ANA in September.”

Video highlights of 787 flight testing can be found at http://youtu.be/9yRmwGMNuDo.

Flight testing continues for 787s with GE engines and for Boeing test points not related to certification.

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner features a wide array of passenger amenities including larger windows, cleaner air, higher humidity and a lower cabin altitude.