Boeing’s high-tech 787 completes flight testing

Boeing has just wrapped up the final tests needed to certify its new Rolls-Royce-powered 787 Dreamliner. Although the 787 faced well publicized delays, Boeing is now preparing to make its first deliveries next month.

Boeing has more than 800 orders for the $185.2 million 787 on the books. More than 200 orders are for the “stretched” 787-9 variant, which can carry up to 290 passengers.

“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 manager of the 787 program. “The Dreamliner continues to demonstrate that we will indeed deliver a truly revolutionary airplane that will be a game changer in the marketplace.”

The Dreamliner entered flight tests in late 2009. During the last couple of years, it has endured some of the most extreme conditions, including being overladen, landing in extreme crosswinds, and even being stalled repeatedly in midair to see if it could safely recover.

The all-new jetliner promises to deliver unprecedented levels of fuel economy, maintenance cost improvements, and environmental-friendliness. The Dreamliner utilizes composite materials, more-electric systems, advanced aerodynamics, and they will be powered by cutting-edge engines from Rolls-Royce and GE.

Get a closer look at the extreme conditions a new commercial airliner faces during flight testing below.