Friday, August 26, 2011

787 earns FAA certification

By Michelle Dunlop, Herald Writer

The Boeing Co.'s 787 jet gained approval from the Federal Aviation Administration on Friday, paving the way for first delivery Sept. 26.

"Today is a day we've all been working very hard for -- for many, many years," said Scott Fancher, general manager of the 787, at a ceremony held in Everett.

The achievement hasn't come easily for Boeing, which had expected to hand over its first Dreamliner in May 2008. However, the mostly composite jet still has more than 800 orders, making it one of the most sought-after aircraft at this stage in its life. The jet maker wrapped up flight testing earlier this month, having started the process in December 2009.

Friday, however, was more reminiscent of July 8, 2007, when Boeing first unveiled its Dreamliner at the Everett factory. Sun streamed down on that first 787 on Friday as the second 787, painted All Nippon Airways color scheme, flew over, wiggling its wings in greeting to the crowd gathered below.

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