Boeing 787
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Boeing 787 Dreamliner
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is a long-haul, wide-body, twin-engine jet airliner developed by Boeing Commercial Airplanes.
Introduced in 2011, the 787 is designed to be significantly more fuel-efficient than older aircraft models, featuring advanced materials, cutting-edge aerodynamics, and next-generation engines.
The first 787 entered commercial service with All Nippon Airways (ANA) on 26 October 2011.
Key Features and Innovations
1. Composite Materials
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The Boeing 787 is the first major commercial aircraft to use over 50% composite materials (mainly carbon-fiber reinforced plastic) in its airframe and wings.
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This lightweight structure allows for 20–25% improved fuel efficiency compared to similar-sized aircraft like the Boeing 767.
2. Engine Technology
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Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 or General Electric GEnx engines.
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These engines are quieter and produce significantly lower CO₂ emissions.
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Advanced nacelle design and serrated engine edges reduce noise during takeoff and landing.
3. Passenger Comfort
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Larger, electrochromic dimmable windows (up to 65% larger than typical airliner windows).
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Higher cabin pressure (equivalent to 6,000 ft altitude) and higher humidity levels, reducing passenger fatigue on long flights.
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Wider cabins, improved air filtration, and LED lighting create a modern and comfortable flying experience.
4. Advanced Aerodynamics
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Unique wing design with raked wingtips improves fuel efficiency and reduces drag.
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Fly-by-wire controls for better handling and safety.
Variants of the Boeing 787
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787-8
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The smallest variant, seating 242 passengers (typical 3-class layout).
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Range: 13,530 km (7,305 nmi).
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787-9
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Stretched version, seating 290–300 passengers.
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Range: 14,140 km (7,530 nmi).
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First delivered to Air New Zealand in 2014.
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787-10
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The largest variant, seating 330–340 passengers.
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Range: 11,910 km (6,430 nmi).
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Optimized for medium- and long-haul routes.
Performance and Range
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Cruising Speed: Mach 0.85 (~913 km/h).
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Fuel Efficiency: 20% lower fuel burn than previous-generation aircraft like Boeing 767.
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MTOW: Up to 254,000 kg (560,000 lb) for the 787-9.
Operational History
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The 787 has become a popular choice for long-haul flights, particularly for point-to-point routes, bypassing traditional hub airports.
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It is operated by airlines such as ANA, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, British Airways, United Airlines, and American Airlines.
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Over 1,100 Boeing 787s have been delivered as of 2024, making it one of Boeing’s most successful wide-body programs.
Technological Innovations
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Electric Systems: The 787 replaces many traditional hydraulic systems with electric systems, reducing weight and maintenance.
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Advanced Flight Deck: Features large LCD displays, dual head-up displays (HUD), and electronic flight bag integration.
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Noise Reduction: One of the quietest long-haul jets in its class.
Specifications (Boeing 787-9)
Specification | Detail |
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Length | 63 m (206 ft) |
Wingspan | 60.1 m (197 ft) |
Height | 17 m (56 ft) |
Cruising Speed | Mach 0.85 (~913 km/h) |
Range | 14,140 km (7,530 nmi) |
Passenger Capacity | 290–300 |
Engines | Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 or GE GEnx |
MTOW | 254,000 kg (560,000 lb) |
Boeing 787 vs. Airbus A350
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Efficiency: Both are highly efficient, but the A350 has slightly larger capacity and range (especially the A350-1000).
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Cabin Comfort: Both offer quiet, modern cabins with high humidity and LED lighting, but the 787’s larger windows are a standout feature.
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Market Focus: The 787 focuses on medium to long-haul point-to-point routes, whereas the A350 often serves ultra-long-haul, high-capacity routes.
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