Air New Zealand welcomes first ever Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
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Air New Zealand has taken delivery of the world’s first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.
Approximately 1,000 Boeing employees joined Air New Zealand executives and guests in a ceremony at the planemaker’s factory near Seattle to witness the event.
“We are proud to be the launch customer for the 787-9,” said Air New Zealand’s chief financial officer, Rob McDonald. “We believe it will be a game-changer for Air New Zealand, with increased levels of fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. We look forward to inviting our customers on board to experience the aircraft and all of its benefits for themselves.”
Air New Zealand’s first B787-9 comes adorned in an all black livery, and is the first of 10 Dreamliners ordered by the airline. The aircraft is fitted with 302 seats, including business, premium economy and economy class cabins, plus the airline’s ‘Skycouch’ concept which converts rows of economy class seats into flat beds.
The aircraft offers the same features as the original B787-8 Dreamliner, including large windows, large overhead storage bins, LED lighting and lower cabin pressure.
“This delivery is a tribute to the hard work and dedication of our employees, suppliers and Air New Zealand,” said John Wojick, Boeing’s senior vice president of global sales & marketing.
“Air New Zealand was a perfect partner for us in developing the 787-9, given its innovative spirit, unique mission requirements and geography. The 787-9, combined with Air New Zealand’s exceptional onboard service, will set them apart from the competition by providing an unrivalled flying experience.”
The new aircraft will initially be deployed on the Auckland-Perth route in October 2014, with routes to Tokyo and Shanghai following a month later.
Twenty-six customers have ordered 409 B787-9s, with major orders from Etihad Airways (41 aircraft), ANA (30), American Airlines (26), United Airlines (26) and Air France-KLM (25).
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