Boeing Issues Press Release about 787 Taxi Tests

Boeing Image

This just out from Boeing a moment ago:

News Release Issued: December 12, 2009 9:16 PM EST

Boeing Completes 787 Dreamliner High-Speed Taxi Test

EVERETT, Wash., Dec. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) completed high-speed taxi tests on the first 787 Dreamliner today. This is the last in a series of functional tests planned in preparation for first flight.

"Our pilots told me the airplane performed beautifully," said Mike Delaney, vice president and chief project engineer for the 787. "We're going through and analyzing the data to ensure we're ready for first flight. From evaluations we've done so far, everything looks good."

During the testing, the airplane reached a top speed of approximately 130 knots (150 mph, 240 kph), and the pilots lifted the nose gear from the pavement. Video highlights of the taxi testing will be available by the end of the day Monday at www.boeing.com and www.newairplane.com.

Taxi test is the last testing planned before first flight.

So now Boeing has completed all testing prior to first flight and have offically set Tuesday, Dec. 15th at 10AM for first flight. My guess that Boeing will get final approval from the FAA after meeting with them and then they go fly. Till then they'll probably be going over the data gather from today's tests. Only the weather is the concern for first flight. Checking http://www.weather.com/ the forecast are as follows:

Sunday, Dec. 13 - Mostly Cloudy, 34H/30L, 20% chance of precip
Monday, Dec. 14 - Few Snow Showers, 37H/32L, 30% chance of precip
Tuesday, Dec. 15 - Showers, 43H/42L, 40% chance of precip
Wednesday, Dec. 16 - Rain, 50H/47L, 70% chance of precip
Thursday, Dec. 17 - Light Rain, 51H/51L, 70% chance of precip
Friday, Dec. 18 - Showers, 52H/44L, 40% chance of precip
Saturday, Dec. 19 - Few Showers, 46H/43L, 30% chance of precip

Another incredible video from Matt Cawby

This is a great video of the 787 during the taxi tests today. This one not only shows the 787 rotating off it's nose wheel but you can hear the engines spooling up as well as see the 787 really up close. Bravo to Matt for getting this video!

Video by Matt Cawby of Skyline Photography



This video is as close to what we'll see for first flight until first flight happens.

Airline Reporter's Video of the 787 almost lifting off!

Dave Brown of Airline Reporter, http://www.airlinereporter.com got an amazing video of the 787 with its nose sheel lifting off for a few seconds. This bird is aching to get off the ground. Special Thanks to David Parker Brown for allowing me to link to his video.
Watch it here:




Or go to his web site, it's terrific:

Airline Reporter

Matt Cawby's Videos of today's 787 taxi tests

Matt Cawby put up a few great videos of today's taxi test.
Thanks to Matt Cawby and Skyline Photography

787 starts taxi tests

UPDATE (5:00PM Eastern Time): Flightblogger reports that today's taxi tests have wrapped up.

UPDATE: During one test the 787's nose wheel left the ground. Getting closer to that first flight.

787 (LN 1, ZA001) started taxi test early (very early) this morning. I'll try to have video up later today from various sources later in the day.

Guy Norris also put up a blog update:

Guy Norris: 787 - Countdown to first flight (resumed) Part 6

Free live streaming by Ustream

Countdown to flight flight - Dec. 11

Well not too much happened today except Boeing did install the static pressure cone in preparation for taxi tests and the start of flight testing. Boeing still needs the FAA ok to start flight tests but the 787 will resume taxi tests starting tomorrow morning (Dec. 12th).

Even though I haven't gotten definitive information, I believe Boeing's plans would be to conduct slow and medium speed taxi tests on Saturday. High speed taxi tests and perhaps RTO (rejected take off) test on Sunday/Monday. Tuesday would be first flight.

Right now the weather forecast is this:

Saturday, Dec. 12 - Cloudy, 38H/30L, 20% chance of precip
Sunday, Dec. 13 - Showers, 36H/30L, 40% chance of precip
Monday, Dec. 14 - Showers, 38H/37L, 60% chance of precip
Tuesday, Dec. 15 - Showers, 43H/43L, 40% chance of precip
Wednesday, Dec. 16 - Showers, 49H/47L, 60% chance of precip
Thursday, Dec. 17 - Showers, 49H/41L, 40% chance of precip
Friday, Dec. 18 - Showers, 45H/45L, 30% chance of precip

Not great flying weather ahead so Boeing might be held back by mother nature.

A little programming note: I'll be covering the first flight on Dec. 15th, 3000 miles away from all the action, here in NY. That evening I'll be flying (AA 757) to Brussels and then from there to Mumbai (Jet Airways 777-300ER). If the 787 doesn't fly on the 15th then I will try my best to update but it may not be possible until after I arrive in Mumbai and even then I'll have limited access as I would have to search for an Internet service provider or I'll be at a family wedding or I might be asleep when first flight occurs. Let's hope for clear skies on the 15th!

Here are some links to the news stories about the 787 that came out today:

Mike Mecham

Things with Wings

Breaking: Boeing clears 787 side of body issue; completes final gauntlet. 787 cleared for flight

Boeing Image

UPDATE: Boeing Says the window for Dreamliner 1's first flight open on Dec. 15th at 10AM

Just out on the newswires, Boeing Press Release:

Boeing 787 Dreamliner Program Completes Static Test Analysis, Gauntlet Tests

EVERETT, Wash., Dec. 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) today completed the review and analysis of the static test that was conducted Nov. 30 to validate the side-of-body modification made to the 787 Dreamliner.

"I am happy to report that the program has validated the airplane structure for the 787 Dreamliner," said Scott Fancher, vice president and general manager of the 787 program.

Fancher also reported that the 787 team has completed final gauntlet testing on the first airplane. Testing lasted for just two days because only improvements made earlier this year during previous testing had to be examined. "We are very pleased with the results of this final functional testing. With the successful completion of static testing and this functional testing, our focus now moves to first flight."

During the test on the 787 Dreamliner static test airframe, the wing and trailing edges of the airframe were subjected to their limit load -- the highest loads expected to be seen in service. The limit-load test was required to clear the airplane for first flight. Boeing's test strategy is to conduct all limit-load tests and analyze data before conducting the ultimate load series, which is required for certification and will be conducted next year.

Boeing announced June 23 that it was necessary to reinforce an area of structure at the side-of-body section of the 787. The modification entails installing new fittings at 34 stringer locations within the joint where the wing attaches to the fuselage. The 787 team has completed modifications on the first three flight-test airplanes and the full-scale static test airplane.

First flight of the 787 Dreamliner is expected to occur after final flight readiness reviews, receipt of documentation from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration and taxi testing. Both taxi testing and first flight are subject to weather conditions.

"We are pleased with the pace of progress in preparing to enter our flight test program," said Fancher.

Boeing still has to get final FAA clearance but I suspect that they would start taxi tests as early as Friday (tomorrow). Now the weather will be the determinant of when the 787 will finally leave the ground after almost two and a half years. What is surprising is that a first flight date has not been announced in the press release.

Flightblogger just put up a post, he expects taxi tests and final flight readiness review to take place on Saturday. Also the first three 787s (Dreamliners 1, 2 and 3) are done with the side of body modifications:

Flighblogger post

Another blog post, this time from Randy Tinseth of Boeing:

Randy's Blog

Guy Norris added his $5 to the news pot tonight. He adds that ZA003 is going through antnna and communications systems tests and is getting ready to join the test flight fleet. Read his blog:

Guy Norris: 787 Countdown to first flight (resumed) Part 5

Fleetbuzzeditorial.com: Boeing's most pressing issue: production

A very interesting and insightful article by Saj Ahmad at Fleetbuzzeditorial.com talking about the most pressing issue Boeing Commercial Aircraft is facing: production of the 747-8 and the 787 models.

Key to Boeing financial stability, in the face of a production ramp down on the 777 line next year, is the production ramp up of the 787.

Read Saj article here:

2010: Testing Times For Boeing

Flightblogger: Boeing Increases 787 weights and shrinks 787-9 wing

As Boeing prepares for the first 787 flight, Flightblogger revealed that Boeing has increased the maximum take off weights (MTOW) weights of all three 787 variants. He cites the latest 787 airport compatibility report. For the 787-8 the MTOW was increased by 8,400kg though this will start with aircraft 20. For the 787-3 the MTOW is increased by 5,000kg and the 787-9 MTOW increased by 2,270kg.

Additionally, Boeing has decided to reduce the length of the 787-9 wing from 61.9m to the same length of the 787-8 which is 60.1m. The 787-9 and 787-8 were originally to have the same length wing but Boeing decided to in increase it to 61.9 but now has reduced back in order to help save weight.

Flightblogger: Boeing increases 787 MTOW, reduces 787-9 wing

Plethora of updates

As we get closer to first flight, bloggers and journalist are sending out all sorts of updates so let's summarize.

Basically the gist of the news coming out is that Boeing has started (and confirmed) final gauntlet for the 787. The reason for another gauntlet is during the last six months while Boeing dealt with the side of body issue, engineers made further refinements on many of the 787's systems. The final (shorter) gauntlet is to verify the modifications work and to verify the integrity of the entire 787 system integration.

Sources have told me that they still plan to finish gauntlet testing tomorrow. Now according to Guy Norris, Boeing has switch the order of the gauntlet blocks with testing the failure modes first and will test the B1 flight profile tomorrow.

The weather looks to play a major role on when the 787 takes off but before that Boeing still has to finish the final gauntlet, carry out taxi tests and more importantly give clearance for the 787 side of body issue. Boeing said it would take ten days to get the results so I suspect tomorrow and Friday are going to be big news days as that information should come out at that point.

I think Boeing will set a first flight date either tomorrow or Friday if the side of body is cleared and I think it'll occur on Tuesday, Dec. 15th weather permitting.

Until further news here are some of today's news links:

Randy's Journal

Flightblogger

Yet another Flightblogger

Guy Norris

Matt Cawby (has a great video of ZA001 performing some gauntlet testing)

Flightblogger: Trent 1000s are ready to go

On Flightglobal.com today, Flightblogger posted a story saying that the Trent 1000s are ready for flight on the 787 citing Rolls Royce's chief engineer for the Trent 1000.

Also Boeing has confirmed the start of final gauntlet testing.

RR: Trent 1000 absolutely ready for first 787 flight

GEnx-2B engines started on first 747-8

Boeing Image

According to Matt Cawby's blog, Boeing has started the engines on the first 747-8 on Wednesday morning. First flight is planned for January 14th as the aircraft heads into gauntlet testing.

Matt Cawby's Dec. 8th post


Update: Here's Boeing's Press Release:

Boeing Successfully Completes 747-8 Freighter Engine Runs


EVERETT, Wash., Dec. 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) successfully completed the first engine runs for the 747-8 Freighter. The milestone marks another step in the 747 program's steady progress in preparing for flight test.

"We are very pleased with the engines' performance during this test," said Mo Yahyavi, vice president and general manager of the 747 program. "The engines and all the systems performed as expected."

Engine runs began slightly before 10 a.m. (PST) Tuesday. During initial engine runs, the engines are started and operated at various power settings to ensure all systems perform as expected. The engine run test began with the auxiliary power system providing power to start the first of four General Electric GEnx-2B engines. The remaining three engines were started using the cross-bleed function.

Basic systems checks continued throughout the test. The engines were powered down and inspected and will be restarted following a technical review. The team completed a vibration check and monitored the shutdown logic to ensure it functioned as expected.

"This milestone is an exciting one for the GEnx-2B team and we anticipate the engines will continue the same high performance that we have experienced in our ground and flight tests," said Tom Brisken, general manager of the GEnx Program at GE Aviation.

The GEnx-2B engine is optimized for the 747-8. It helps provide customers with improved fuel efficiency, reductions in emissions and noise and a lower cost of ownership.

Boeing may build some 787 parts in North Charleston

Editor Note: Dominic Gates of the Seattle Times broke this story on Dec. 7th, 2009

Along with final assembly activities, Boeing Charleston might also get more 787 part manufacturing responsibilities to boot. Currently, the Boeing facility in Frederickson, Wa. builds the vertical tail fin for the 787 and other Boeing facilities in Washington State manufacture other parts for the 787.

Because these facilities are staffed by IAM 751 members, Boeing is looking to have the Charleston facility or a 3rd party do the manufacturing of the tail fin and the other parts for Charleston assembled aircraft. Frederickson and the other Washington area facilities will continue to manufacture the parts for 787s assembled at Everett. Boeing is trying to ensure that the 787 will continue in production in case of labor disruptions at Everett.

There is a possibility that Boeing can outsource the manufacturing of these parts to a third party but I do think Boeing will keep these in house and base it out of Boeing Charleston.

The story is by Dominc Gates from the Seattle Times. You can read more about it below:

Charleston likely to build more Boeing parts

Guy Norris: Final Gauntlet began this morning

According to Guy Norris at Aviation Week. Boeing has started the final gauntlet testing on ZA001 this morning. The testing should take about 2 to 3 days to complete which should coincide with Boeing having the final results from the static tests on the wing.

Guy reports that the gauntlet testing will be done in four blocks with the first block following the testing that would occur during the aircraft's first flight. The other blocks will test failure modes with the last block going through a full first flight in realistic conditions.

Guy Norris: 787 Countdown to first flight (resumed) Part 3

United Airlines buys 25 787s and 25 A350

UPDATE: UA says the 787 order is for the 787-8 model while they'll also buy the A350-900.

United Airlines announced a huge widebody order for 25 787s (type unknown) and 25 A350s (type also unknown). They also have options of 50 of each aircraft and these airplanes are meant to replace the 767 and 747s in United's fleet. The split buy is somewhat surprising as there was a general feeling that United would have gone with one manufacturer for the wide body order and another for the coming narrow body order.

What is also surprising is that United did not place any jumbo orders (747-8 or A380). The fact that they seem to want to replace the 747s with A350s and 787s says they're want to reduce capacity in the future (2016 to 2019 is when the new airplanes will be delivered) while probably offering more frequencies to their main routes.

More of a concern to Boeing is that United didn't select the 777, an aircraft that United had launched in the 1990s. I bet Boeing will now accelerate 777NG plans in order for it to be more competitive vs the A350, in my opinion they have no choice unless they want to cede that market to Airbus.

Here's United's press release:

United Invests in Future, Places Order for Next-Generation Aircraft

CHICAGO, Dec. 8 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- United Airlines today announced a significant investment in the company's future with a widebody aircraft order that will enable the carrier to reduce operating costs and better match aircraft to key markets it serves, while providing its customers with state-of-the-art cabin comfort. The new technology aircraft will reduce fuel burn and environmental impact, while enabling service to a broader array of international destinations. United ordered 25 Airbus A350 XWB aircraft and 25 Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft and has future purchase rights for 50 of each aircraft.

The aircraft order follows a rigorous, six-month request for proposal process, which resulted in agreements with both manufacturers, enabling the company to meet its financial and operational objectives and respond to changes in future market conditions. The breadth in size and capabilities of the different aircraft models ensure the company has the right aircraft for the right market throughout the fleet replacement cycle.

Order an investment in the future
"Over the last few years we have made fundamental improvements in United's performance, delivering excellent cost control while improving the quality and reliability of our product. This aircraft order is another significant step on the path to position United for long-term success in a highly competitive global market," said Glenn Tilton, UAL Corporation chairman, president and CEO. "I would like to thank our team for making this order a reality in a manner that is consistent with our disciplined financial strategy. We are investing in our future, and we are well
positioned to take full advantage as the economy recovers in the shorter term."

United expects to take delivery of the aircraft between 2016 and 2019; at the same time it will retire its international Boeing 747s and 767s. These 50 new aircraft will reduce the average seat count by about 19 percent compared to the aircraft they will replace, and by about 10 percent when averaged over the entire international fleet. With the Airbus A350 powered by the Rolls Royce Trent XWB engine, and the Boeing 787 powered by either the Rolls Royce Trent 1000 or the GE GEnx, United estimates it will reduce its fuel costs and carbon emissions from the 50 aircraft by about 33 percent. Additionally, the company expects average lifetime maintenance costs for the new aircraft to be approximately 40 percent lower per available seat mile than the aircraft that will be retired.

The new aircraft will open up new revenue opportunities for United as the smaller size, longer range, and lower operating costs of these aircraft allow the company to profitably serve a broader range of international destinations. The A350 has a range 11 percent greater than the current B747, and the B787 has a range 32 percent greater than the current B767.

Both new aircraft offer significant improvements to the customer experience, including larger windows, more overhead bin space and improved lighting, among other features.

United leverages current environment, orders from both manufacturers

This order provides United with the most efficient aircraft for its international network, providing the right range, size and operating costs for United's diverse set of worldwide destinations, said CFO Kathryn Mikells.
"Our decision to move forward aggressively at the bottom of the business cycle clearly benefited us. We secured the right aircraft and the right deal for United," Mikells said. "The orders require minimal capital over the next few years but ensure we will have the right planes to strengthen our global network over the next
decade."

Ordering in a down cycle expected to reap benefits
"We are pleased to be working with United, our longtime customer, and launch customer of the Boeing 777," said Jim McNerney, Boeing chairman, president and CEO. "We think United is making a smart decision placing an order at this point in the cycle and taking delivery years into the future. The 787 Dreamliner will provide United with additional range and unmatched fuel efficiency."

"United Airlines is a global icon, and it's very gratifying that they have chosen the A350 to be a key part of their strategy," said Airbus President and CEO Tom Enders. "It also is fitting that the selection of the eco-efficient A350-900 comes at a
time when the world is focusing on operating as efficiently as possible and minimizing environmental impact. Airbus and United have been partners for two decades, and we look forward to extending that partnership well into the future."

United last took delivery of aircraft in 2002, and last ordered aircraft in 1998.

Here's Boeing's statement on the United Order. Obviously the order is not finalized so it'll be interesting to see which model of each aircraft United will buy.

Boeing Statement on United Airlines Selection of 787 Dreamliner

SEATTLE, Dec. 8, 2009 – Boeing [NYSE: BA] is delighted that United Airlines has selected the Boeing 787 Dreamliner for the replacement and expansion of its twin-aisle fleet.

“United’s selection of the Boeing 787 continues the 80-year partnership between our two companies,” said Jim Albaugh, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “The 787 is the first new airplane of the 21st century. Its advanced technology and unprecedented improvements in fuel efficiency will help United achieve its business objectives and enhance its leadership position among the world’s top airlines.” Boeing looks forward to working with United to finalize the order at which time it will be posted to the Boeing Orders and Deliveries Web site.

Dec. 15th first flight date reaffirmed...so far

Sources told me that Boeing is still tracking for a first flight on Dec. 15th and that testing is proceeding extremely well. This information is further reinforced by Flightblogger's post earlier this evening.

In his blog, Flightblogger says that Dreamliner 1 is expected to begin a 2 to 3 day final gauntlet starting as early as tomorrow and concluding around Wednesday or Thursday. During this testing Boeing will test the 92 systems on board the aircraft as put them through a simulated B1 first flight. They will also put the aircraft systems through simulated failures and observe how the systems react.

After the gauntlet test are completed and pending a favorable review of the static test data from ZY997 (static test air frame), Boeing will proceed into low/high speed taxi test as well as reject take off test (hopefully to take place the day before first flight). Of course first flight is again predicated up on successful review of the static data, the completion of the gauntlet and taxi tests and favorable weather in the Seattle area.

Flightblogger : ZA001 proceeds towards final gauntlet

Update: Matt Cawby has blogged that it looks like taxi tests will occur late this week into the weekend:

Matt Cawby's Dec. 7th Blog Post

Dreamliner 1 may start taxi tests soon

According to Guy Norris and Matt Cawby, Boeing may start conducting some taxi tests of Dreamliner 1 very soon. Matt Cawby on his blog post yesterday says that further VHF radio checks were conducted and added that taxi tests appeared imminent.

Matt Cawby also videotaped the LCF delivering the main fuselage section for Dreamliner 14 (LN 14).
Matt Cawby's Dec. 5th blog post

Today Guy Norris posted on his blog at Aviation Week that there is to be a "all hands" safety walk down which is a sign that taxi tests are imminent. Guy also said that testing thus far has gone very well. Now the question remains, with taxi test apparently coming soon, does that mean that Boeing is altering the path to first flight? What other testing is going to happen and when? What about the detailed static test results (should be coming within days). The answers to these questions will help determine when Dreamliner 1 will fly.

787 Countdown to first flight (resumed) Part 2

UPDATE (12/7/2009, 2:50PM) I'm getting word that Dreamliner 1 is being deiced. The only reason to do that is to either run taxi tests or to make sure that the aircrafts movable surfaces are free of ice during flight control surface movements in a test.

Guy Norris 747-8 and 787 updates

Guy Norris of Aviation Week posted a couple of updates for both the 747-8 and the 787 where he reviewed the pre-first flight test activities swirling around both RC501(747-8) and ZA001 (787-8). All indications are is that there is excellent progress being made to get these airplanes up and flying around in the projected time frames that have been revealed here and on Flightblogger.

Guy reinforced the view that Boeing hopes to have two 787s flying around the Seattle area before the end of the year. I wonder how long it'll be to get the other 4 flying test flights in support of certification?

Guy also put forth an interesting first flight date - Dec. 17th which is the 106th Anniversary of the first powered flight by the Wright Brothers. HMMMM.

Now this weekend Guy reported that Boeing should be conducting or have conducted test of he engine electronic controls as well as flight control software regression testing. There will also be testing of several software updates that have since been installed in the aircraft systems. Additionally, the ground team that will monitor telemetry from the aircraft as the first flight starts will be going through a rehearsal of those flight tests. Lastly, for the Dreamliner 2, Boeing plans to start a series of ground tests on that aircraft on Monday, Dec. 7th. I'm assuming that Dreamliner 2 may follow the exact testing path that Dreamliner 1 is currently is undergoing.

Guy Norris' 787 countdown to first flight (resumed) part 1

With the Korean Air order under it's belt and the fact that the 747-8I detailed design is 90% complete, Boeing must is steadily marching towards the Jan. 14th first flight date for the 747-8F.
GE is hoping to wrap up certification testing of the GEnx-2B engines with natural icing tests. They're hoping to do that somewhere up in Everett around the same time that Boeing is hoping to get the 787 up in the air. How's that for karma!

Guy Norris' 747-8 Update

787 First Flight Roulette Wheel

Well I should start taking bets for first flight. I've heard of many dates but a lot of them have coalesced around the 14th to the 22nd.

Well further information reveals that the Dec. 14th to Dec. 19th time frame is looking more and more likely for first flight. Further, Dreamliner 2 is targeted to have it's first flight before Christmas.

In 20 days we could have two 787s flying around the skies of Seattle.

Flightblogger: 787 First Flight Date's a Moving Target

Well the title sums it all up. I even heard a date of Dec. 12th though I really think that date is not realistic. One pattern is emerging: the date is going to be between Dec. 14th and Dec. 22nd and Boeing is marching towards that date.

Flightblogger reported that Boeing performed software checks as well as testing the thrust reversers. The final gauntlet testing is still schedule for next week and ZA002 is inside going through some final reassembly activities as well as getting it's fuel tanks washed out.

Also Matt Cawby reported on his blog that Boeing conducted VHF radio checks on the same frequency that was used for the taxi tests. The nose section for LN14 (Dreamliner 14) was delivered today on the LCF from Spirit Aerosystems.

Flightblogger

Matt Cawby

Airbus start A350XWB production

Airbus announced today that they have started production on the first A350-900 with the laying down of of composite tape for a panel of the center wing box section in Nantes, France. The first airplane should be ready by 2012 for first flight and first delivery is planned for 2013.

Here's Airbus' statement:

A350 XWB first composite lay-up manufactured in Nantes
4 December 2009


Building on Airbus' evolutionary approach to aircraft composites development

The first composite lay-up for the A350 XWB has been manufactured today in Nantes, France, and marks the 'coming to life' of Airbus's new long range aircraft. This panel for the centre wing-box (CWB), entirely made of carbon, has a surface area of 36 square meters, making it the largest "monobloc" composite panel ever manufactured in Nantes, using a new state-of-the-art laying machine. Once assembled in Nantes, the CWB will be delivered to Airbus Saint-Nazaire for integration.

Along with other Airbus facilities, the Airbus plant in Nantes has a high expertise in composite material and is a leader in the manufacture of carbon fibre structural parts, such as the centre wing box and the keel beam for the A350 XWB. On the all-new aircraft Family, 53 per cent of the aircraft by weight will be composite-based, including major elements such as wings and fuselage.

"This key milestone for the A350 XWB programme has been made possible through Airbus' methodical and evolutionary approach to incorporating composites in its aircraft, and the consequent experience gained over many years," said Fabrice Brégier, Airbus Chief Operating Officer.

Didier Evrard, Head of the A350 XWB programme added: "The A350 XWB is becoming real, and further builds on our expertise in key areas such as: materials technology; predictive stress analysis and design; composite manufacturing; and composite engineering and assembly, including manufacturing processes and tool technology concepts."

The A350 XWB Family is Airbus' response to widespread market demand for a series of highly efficient medium-capacity long-range wide-body aircraft. With a range of up to 8,300nm / 15,400km, it is available in three basic passenger versions. Moreover, it has the widest fuselage in its category, offering unprecedented levels of
comfort, the lowest operating costs and lowest seat-mile cost of any aircraft in this market segment. Powered by new-generation Rolls-Royce Trent engines, the A350 XWB Family is designed to confront the challenges of high fuel prices, rising passenger expectations, and environmental constraints.

Firm orders for the A350 XWB now stand at 505 from 32 customers worldwide.

Seattle Times: 787 First Flight targeted for Dec. 18th

Seattle Times reporter, Dominick Gates, is reporting that Boeing has set a Dec. 18th first flight date and that they hope to have Dreamliner 1 and Dreamliner 2 both flying by the end of the year.

I had reported earlier this week that Boeing is planning a Dec. 14th first flight date at the earliest so the schedule may have shifted to the right though I have not heard for what reason yet.

Still this is before the previously reported date of Dec. 22nd. I'm trying to confirm this date and the reasons for the move from the 14th.

Boeing Aims for two 787s to fly by year end

747-8I Gets a boost from Korean Air

Boeing Image

Boeing and the 747-8 program got a boost from an important Asian customer, Korean Air, when they signed an MoU (the deal is not finalized and won't appear on Boeing order tally until it is finalized) for 5 747-8I. These 747s will be delivered between 2013 and 2015 and will complement the 747-8F that Korean also will operate. Lately, Korean Air has been a huge Boeing customer with orders for the 787, 777-300ER and the 737. Now with them ordering the 747-8I they are committed to Boeing entire widebody line up. They also have 10 A380s on order.

Boeing's Press Release:

Boeing, Korean Air Announce Order for New 747-8 Intercontinental Five airplanes worth $1.5 billion at list prices

SEATTLE, Dec. 4 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) and Korean Air today announced an order for five 747-8 Intercontinental jetliners. Korean Air is the first Asian airline to order the passenger version of the new, fuel-efficient 747-8.

The airplanes have a total average list price value of $1.5 billion. Korean Air already has arrangements to operate seven 747-8 Freighters.

"This is a great day in the history of our long and enduring partnership with Korean Air," said Jim Albaugh, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The technologically advanced 747-8 Intercontinental is particularly well suited for Korean Air's operations. It will provide exceptional levels of passenger comfort, greatly enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced emissions and noise. The announcement comes at an exciting time as we move closer to the first 747-8 Freighter flight in early 2010."

Korean Air plans on flying the 747-8 Intercontinental on long-haul routes to the Americas and Europe.

"The 747-8 Intercontinental fills the void between the 300- and 550-seat airplanes in our future fleet," said Won Tae Cho, managing vice president of Korean Air Passenger Business Division. "The technological enhancements Boeing has made to this airplane will deliver exceptional economics and a flying experience that will thrill our customers, enabling Korean Air to provide Excellence in Flight to our customers."
The new 747-8 Intercontinental is stretched 18.3 feet (5.6 m) from the 747-400 to provide 467 seats in a three-class configuration, an additional 51 seats. It also offers a range of 8,000 nautical miles (14,815 km). Using the new GEnx-2B engines, the 747-8 provides airlines a quieter, more fuel-efficient airplane. The 747-8 also provides nearly equivalent trip costs and 13 percent lower seat-mile costs than the 747-400, plus 26 percent greater cargo volume.

The 747-8 also features a new wing design and an upgraded flight deck. The airplane interior incorporates features from the 787 Dreamliner, including a new curved, upswept architecture that will give passengers a greater sense of space and comfort, while adding more room for personal belongings. The architecture will be accentuated by lighting technology that provides smooth transitions for a more restful flight.

The 747 program is in the later stages of the 747-8 Intercontinental design phase. Assembly on the airplane is set to begin around mid-2010, with the first delivery of the freighter version scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2011.

With the addition of the Korean Air order, Boeing has secured 110 orders for the 747-8. Thirty-two of the orders are for the 747-8 Intercontinental, and the remaining 78 are for the 747-8 Freighter.

Dreamliner 1's engines are back on!

Photo and Videos Courtesy of Liz Matzelle

ZA001 Right Engine Start from Liz Matzelle on Vimeo.

ZA001 Left Engine Start from Liz Matzelle on Vimeo.

Thanks to Liz Matzelle who braved the cold Washington State weather she was able to confirm that 787 ZA001 (LN1 or Dreamliner 1) has restarted its engines for the first time since this summer. This is the start of the re-testing process leading up to the aircraft's first flight which hopefully should take place on Dec. 14th. Liz's photo shows the telltale smoke of the oil being burnt off as the aircraft Trent 1000 engines are restarted. This was the engine build verification tests that Flightblogger alluded to in his post. After the engine tests, navigational systems checks should be next within the next couple of days followed by closed loop gauntlet testing that should start early next week. Stay tuned, this is getting good.

787 may fly on Dec. 14th

Photo by Liz Matzelle

Sources have told me that Boeing is targeting Dec. 14 at 10AM for the first flight of the 787.

This schedule is dependent on three important tasks being completed:
1. Detailed analysis of wing limit load test
2. Gauntlet testing (presumably done concurrently with the detailed wing load limit analysis)
3. Low/High speed taxi test and rejected take off tests

Sources have also said that ZA001 can start engine runs as early as this week.
ZA002 is not ready to undertake any testing as its fuel tanks are not closed or have had an aqueous wash after the modifications.

The immediate question is can Boeing pull it off so soon? They can in my opinion. When Boeing announced the latest delay, they were one week away from first flight and had completed all the major gauntlet testing and were about to start taxi tests, some of which they did do (low speed). With the potential clearance of the side of body flaw in about 10 days, Boeing would be back to the same spot they were on June 23rd. Boeing can concurrently carry out the detailed analysis of the static tests along with the gauntlet retesting as well as conduct low speed taxi runs up to the point that the detailed analysis is complete during those next 10 days. If it done by Dec. 10th then Boeing can have four days to do high speed taxi runs and rejected take off testing and go immediately into flight test mode on Dec. 14th.

Finally I reported that the 787 and 747-8 would make the first flight on the same day. That has since been disproved and the 747-8F will make it's first flight on Jan. 14th as I had posted earlier.

UPDATE - Flightblogger also is reporting the same news that ZA001 can be flying as early as Dec. 14th weather permitting.

First Flight Countdown Begins for 787

787 passes static wing load test

Future of Flight Picture

This evening several sources reported that the 787 static test air frame had passed the static wing load tests. This was later confirmed this evening in a Boeing press release which is below:

Boeing Completes 787 Dreamliner Static Test

EVERETT, Wash., Nov. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) today completed the static test necessary to validate the side-of-body modification made to the 787 Dreamliner. The company expects a full analysis of the test results to be concluded in approximately 10 days. A successful test result is needed to clear the airplane for its planned first flight next month.

During today's test on the 787 Dreamliner static test airframe, the wing and trailing edges of the airframe were subjected to its limit load -- the highest loads expected to be seen in service. The load is about the same as 2.5 times the force of gravity for the wing.

Boeing announced on June 23 that it was necessary to reinforce an area of structure at the side-of-body section of the 787. The modification entails installing new fittings at 34 stringer locations within the joint where the wing is attached to the fuselage. The modifications were completed on the first two flight-test airplanes and the full-scale static test airplane earlier this month.

"Today's test was an important milestone for the program. We will confirm the test results after the completion of our detailed analysis," said Scott Fancher, vice president and general manager of the 787 program.

Boeing engineers still needs to finish detailed analysis of the test data but it's looking very good. ZA001 and ZA002 are both back out on the flightline and it's expected that ZA002 will perform additional taxi tests this week. The detailed analysis should take about 10 days to complete but I expect that during this time Boeing will carry out the additional and needed gauntlet testing as well as taxi tests on the 787 in advance of the 787 first flight.

Now according to Matt Cawby's blog, both 787 ZA001 and 747-8F RC501 will attempt their first flights (B1 flight) on December 22nd. While this date is expected for the 787 this is a surprise for the 747-8F and is an attempt to take advantage of maximum exposure on both these aircraft and to show that these programs are back on track.

Matt Cawby's Nov. 30th Blog Post

Earlier both the Seattle Times and Flightblogger reported that the 787 had passed the crucial wing load test to 100% of design loads (the ultimate or 150% design load test will come in 2010 and is not needed for first flight but needed for FAA certification). The passing of the design load limit test means that the side of body fix designed by Boeing engineers works according to their computer models.

Seattle Times

Flightblogger

Wing Load test started on static test 787

Matt Cawby reported on his blog today that Boeing has started a wing load test on ZY997, the 787 static test air frame. More on this when I get more information.

Matt Cawby's Nov. 27 blog post

Other news from the aviation world

We all know the aviation world doesn't revolve around the 787...yet, so here some other interesting tid bits to tide you over until the next 787 update.
Heathrow is demolishing T2 to make way for a brand spanking new T2 that will replace the old T2 and T1. Looks real nice to me especially since T2 has been around since 1955, it's time for a change.
The first phase of the project should be done by 2013 and the second phase should be completed by 2019.

Introducing Heathrow's New Terminal 2

Moving on to other topics. Looks like the A400M may beat the 787 into the skies. There's word going around that first flight for the European military transport is penciled in for November 30 (2009). The aircraft has already completed one set of low speed taxi tests so the Nov. 30th date is not out of the realm of the possible.

A400M Taxi Trials

Lastly, there was an interesting report out on the heels of EADS admission that the A380 is a matter of concern. With only 202 orders over the past 9 years since the aircraft was launched and a lot of customer deferrals for the aircraft, Airbus is going to have great difficulty getting the production rate up to any meaningful number let alone 40/year that they had hoped they would achieve in 2010. The fact that Lufthansa's first A380 has been delayed from the spring 2010 into the summer doesn't make any one feel more confident about the direction ofthis program. This can effect EADS' other programs especially the A350. Here's a very interesting research piece from Gerson Lehrman Group.

Airbus Battles with Continued A380 Woes

Boeing shows off its newest member of the 747 family

Randy Tinseth post a great post full of pictures and video of the 747-8F heading for the paint hangar as well as pics after the paint job was done. Great pics and you can truly appreciate the length of the 747-8.

It looks incredible. First flight is still penciled in for January 14th, 2010.

Let It Roll

Can 787 surge help the KC-767?

Leeham analyst Scott Hamilton put out a very interesting piece on his blog suggesting that the 787 production surge that is going to take place in Everett prior to start of the production run in North Charleston, SC will lead to lower production cost and ultimately a lower bid price on the KC-767 Tanker when compared to the EADS KC-330. This may be a huge advantage for the KC-767.

Read on here.

787 still tracking for Dec. 22nd first flight

According to sources Boeing is still tracking to a first flight on December 22nd. Boeing hopes to start testing the fix on the static air frame after the Thanksgiving holidays (next week) and verify what their computer models are telling them.

Once that is complete then the way should be clear to restart pre-flight gauntlet tests followed by taxi tests and then first flight.

Additionally, the remainder of the test fleet as well as the production models completed thus far should go through the side of body modification in fairly rapid order.

I would expect that Boeing should have a good understanding if the side of body modifications work soon after they complete the tests. They will still have to review the test results with the FAA and get their approval prior to the continuation of the test program.

Flightblogger: 787 Fleet location

UPDATE (11/22/2009): ZA002 has been moved out to the Everett flightline and it seems that all the wing to body fairings have been reinstalled indicating that reassembly tasks maybe complete. See a picture of the Everett flight line by clicking here.

Flightblogger posted a great summary of where all the 787s are and the status of each aircraft

ZA001/LN1 : In paint hangar undergoing reassembly and should move to building 40-24 (767 line) this weekend to complete those reassembly tasks

ZA002/LN2 : Finish modifications and is in building 40-24 for reassembly tasks

ZA003/LN3 : In building 40-24 under going side of body modifications

ZA004/LN4 : At the ATS Hanger under going side of body modifications

ZA005/LN5 : On the Everett flightline awaiting it's turn for side of body modification

ZA006/LN6 : On the Everett flightline awaiting it's turn for side of body modification

ZA100/LN7 : On the Everett flightline awaiting it's turn for side of body modification

ZA101/LN8 : On the Everett flightline awaiting it's turn for side of body modification

ZA102/LN9 : At the ATS Hangar awaiting it's turn for side of body modification

ZA103/LN10 : In building 40-26 undergoing final assembly

ZA104/LN11 : In building 40-26 undergoing final assembly

ZA105/LN12 : In building 40-26 undergoing final assembly

ZA115/LN13 : In building 40-26 undergoing final assembly

ZA116/LN14 : Parts are arriving (horizontal stab and wings in da house)

Flightblogger : Getting Oriented

Boeing Announces Charleston, SC Groundbreaking

Boeing Image

Well now it's underway. Can't wait to see the first 787 rolling out in about 18 months or so

Boeing Breaks Ground on Second 787 Assembly Line in North Charleston, SC

Boeing facility expands production capability and increases footprint in South Carolina

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C., Nov. 20 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) today held a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the start of construction for the second final assembly site for the 787 Dreamliner program at its Boeing Charleston facility. The facility also will have the capability to support the testing and delivery of airplanes.

"Today's event marks the beginning of an expansion plan that will strengthen the 787 program and allow us to continue building on the footprint we have established in South Carolina with Boeing Charleston and Global Aeronautica," said Jim Albaugh, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Locating the second line in North Charleston will allow Boeing to successfully compete in the aerospace market and grow for the long-term benefit of many stakeholders."

Today's groundbreaking ceremony was attended by Albaugh; South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford; Sen. Lindsey Graham; Sen. Jim DeMint; Rep. Henry Brown; Rep. James Clyburn; State Sen. Hugh Leatherman; State Sen. Glenn McConnell; State Rep., Speaker of the House Bobby Harrell; Charleston County Council Chairman Teddie Pryor, Sr.; North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey and other key officials from South Carolina. Anita Zucker, chairperson and CEO of The InterTech Group, Inc., served as master of ceremonies for the event.

Boeing Charleston performs fabrication, assembly and systems installation for the 787 aft fuselage sections. Global Aeronautica, which is 50 percent owned by Boeing, is responsible for joining and integrating 787 fuselage sections from other structural partners.

"We look forward to expanding our capability in South Carolina through our existing site, while maintaining our commitment to the Puget Sound region where Boeing Commercial Airplanes remains headquartered," said Albaugh. "Puget Sound will continue to design and produce airplanes, including the 787."

The 787 Dreamliner will be more efficient, quieter and have lower emissions than other airplanes while offering passengers greater comfort and the convenience of direct, nonstop flights between more cities around the world. Fifty-five customers around the world have ordered 840 787s since the program was launched in April 2004, making the Dreamliner the fastest-selling new commercial jetliner in history. The 787 family of airplanes will carry 210 to 330 passengers on flights up to 8,500 nautical miles (15,750 km).

Dow Jones confirms Dec. 22nd first flight date

I want to thank Dow Jones for confirming what I had reported 10 days ago!!!

Dow Jones 787 First Flight Date

First 747-8F out of paint Hangar

Boeing Photo

Boeing showed off the newest version of the 747 painted in the Boeing "light" scheme. It will now proceed for fueling tests followed by APU start and then first engine start and intermediate gauntlet.

In a little bit of 787 news, the fatigue test air frame is now in the temporary tent hangar on the Everett flightline which may mean that this air frame may be next to undergo the side of body modification. A 747LCF also delivered the next horizontal stabilizer for Dreamliner 13.

787 vs A400M, Irish bookmakers taking bets on first flight

Ok, so who's up for placing a bet? Irish bookmaker, Paddy Power, is giving the 787 1-2 odds for making it into the air before the A400M which is at 6-4. Both planemakers are saying that they expect first flight for these two airplanes before the end of the year.

Boeing's Dreamliner Odds-on For First Take Off

Boeing confirms completion of mods on static air frame and Dreamliner 2

Both Photos Courtesy of Boeing

This out from Boeing early (very) this morning:

Boeing Completes Side-of-Body Installations on Two More 787
Dreamliners

EVERETT, Wash., Nov. 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) has completed installing reinforcements within the side-of-body section of two more 787 Dreamliners.

Over the weekend, employees at Boeing's facility in Everett, Wash., finished reinforcing the full-scale static test airframe and the second Dreamliner designated for flight test. Installations were completed Nov. 11 on the first flight-test airplane.

The modification entails installing new fittings at 34 stringer locations within the joint where the wing is attached to the fuselage.

"Our focus now is on completing the static test later this month, which will validate the modification," said Scott Fancher, vice president and general manager of the 787 program. "Concurrently we are restoring the airplanes and completing the functional tests required to fly by the end of the year."

The static test airframe is being refitted with strain gauges and instrumentation required for testing. Access doors, systems, seals and fasteners removed from airplane No. 2 to provide access are being restored in preparation for continued testing on the airplane. The first 787 also is being restored.

Fancher said the program is on track to fly the 787 by the end of the year.

"We are building momentum with each milestone we achieve," Fancher said. "This team is focused on its goals and bringing us ever closer to first flight."

I'm assuming that Dreamliner 2 will finish up reassembly activities inside 40-24. Additionally, Matt Cawby is reporting that the fatigue test air frame and Dreamliner 2 (ZA002, LN2) will swap places with Dreamliner 2 going into building 40-24 and the fatigue test air frame taking its place on the flightline prior to undergoing modifications for the side of body join.

Matt Cawby's 787 Update

787s on the move

According to Matt Cawby's blog, Dreamliner 2 (ZA002, LN2) has apparently completed it's side of body modifications and will be moved out of the temporary hangar on the Everett flightline.

In it's place Dreamliner 4 (ZA004, LN4) will be moved from the ATS hangar where it currently resides into the temporary hangar on the flightline for the modification work.. Dreamliner 1 (ZA001, LN 1) conducted VHF and HF radio checks but no word on when it will be pulled out of the paint hangar.

Since Boeing indicated that the modifications on ZA002 and ZY997 (static test) were to be completed within days, it does stand to reason that Boeing should be able to conduct the wing stress test on ZY997 within the next few weeks since I do believe the mods should be done on that aircraft too.

With Dreamliner 2 moving out onto to the flightline, Boeing will have the following 787s outside:
Dreamliner 2, Dreamliner 6, Dreamliner 7 and Dreamliner 8.

At last report Dreamliner 3 and Dreamliner 4 are at the ATS hangar and Dreamliner 5 is in building 40-24 (767 final assembly line). ZY998 (fatigue test) I believe is also in 40-24.

Matt Cawby's Blog

WSJ: Another 787 issue

The Wall Street Journal reported today that Boeing had discovered an issue with composite delamination while installing the side of body fix on ZA001.

Now Boeing has responded that the issue has been resolved and that they ar still tracking first flight for around the end of the year.

So is this a real issue with the airplane or is it a tempest in tea pot?

In my opinion if the issue was as serious that the Wall Street Journal is making it out to be then Boeing wouldn't be closing up panels and reinstalling equipment on the airplane that had exhibited this delamination issue. Also as far as we know ZA001 is the only aircraft to have shown this delamination issue with the freeze plugs and is confined to a small area. Yet the Wall Street Journal went ahead and over-sensationalize the issue.

Now people are inevitably going to bring up the old refrain "Well how can we trust what Boeing says"

The answer well they didn't fly when they realize the side of body joint is a serious issue and if this delamination problem is a safety of flight issue then they won't fly but it truly does sound like this is a nothing issue.

Read on:

Wall Street Journal article

Randy's Blog: Takin' Care of Business

Bloomberg article

Boeing Announces that Side of Body Fix Complete on 1st 787

This just out of Boeing confirming what Flightblogger had reported just a couple of days ago, what is interesting is that ZY997 and ZA002 are not too far behind ZA001 which means a very steep learning curve for the fix to be installed. Boeing expects to verify the fix on the static test air frame later this month:

Photo of ZA001 in the Paint Hangar

Courtesy of Boeing

Side-of-Body Installations Complete on First Boeing 787 Dreamliner

EVERETT, Wash., Nov. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) has completed installing reinforcements within the side-of-body section on the first 787 Dreamliner.

The modification entails installing new fittings at 34 stringer locations within the joint where the wing is attached to the fuselage. Installations were completed yesterday.
Boeing expects to complete the installations on the static test airframe and the second flight-test airplane in the coming days.

"Completing this work is a significant step toward first flight. We continue to be pleased with the progress of the team and remain confident the first flight of the 787 Dreamliner will occur before the end of the year," said Scott Fancher, vice president and general manager of the 787 program. "We will test the modification on the full-scale static test airframe later this month. As soon as we confirm the loads are being handled appropriately in the joint we will complete preflight activities on the
airplane."

Once the modification is complete on the static test airframe, it will be refitted with strain gauges and instrumentation required for testing. Access doors, systems, seals and fasteners removed from airplane No. 1 to provide access are being restored in preparation for continued testing on the airplane. Boeing continues to install fittings on the fatigue test airframe and the remaining flight-test airplanes. Other airplanes will be modified in the weeks ahead. Overall, the work on modifying airplanes is progressing well, Fancher said.

"We have a strong and capable team that has performed exceptionally well," Fancher said. "I'm very pleased with the team's dedication to meet our commitment to fly before the end of the year."

After airplane No. 1 is restored, the flight-test team will perform another set of gauntlet and taxi tests to ensure that all systems are ready for flight. Fancher noted that with the exception of a single high-speed taxi test, all remaining flight-test activities have been successfully completed on the first flight-test airplane.

Charleston Ground Breaking on Nov. 20th

Mike Mecham at Aviation Week posted on "Things With Wings" blog that Boeing will have the ground breaking ceremony for the Charleston final assembly line next Friday, Nov. 20th. The construction is expected to take about a year and a half and should allow Boeing to produce its first 787 by early 2012.

One interesting detail in his report is that there will be two buildings and the paint shop will be located within the building that also houses the final assembly line as oppose to Boeing Everett set up where all aircraft produced there must be towed across a bridge to the other side of a highway to the paint hangars.

The second building will house the delivery center, storage facility and probably offices.

Mike Mecham : Charleston Welcome

Latest 787 schedule info from Flightblogger

Flightblogger just post some more information regarding the ongoing side of body fix and the schedule for the remainder of this year.

In his post, Flightblogger reports that ZA001 essentially has completed its side of body modifications while reaffirming that first flight for ZA001 is due to take place around the December 22nd date that I reported yesterday.

Flightblogger also reported that the testing of the fix on the full scale static test air frame will take place in late November followed by detailed analysis of the test results prior to restart of testing on ZA001. Starting today, Boeing will begin the task of reinstalling systems and panels on ZA001 as well as doing a through cleaning of the aircraft which probably also include an aqueous wash of the fuel tanks again.

Flightblogger: ZA001 wing fix complete

Update: Guy Norris at Aviation Week also has a post up on the 787 in his blog:

787 Wing Fix

First Flights!

According to sources, Boeing has target dates for the first flights for the 747-8 and 787-8.

The first flight for the 787 is targeted for December 22, 2009.

The first flight for the 747-8 is targeted for January 14, 2010.

I do have independent confirmation of these dates but as with everything with regards to these two airplane programs, the question remains if these dates are achievable. Time will tell.

2nd production 787 moved to flightline

While we and the rest of the world waits for the first flight of the 787, Matt Cawby got video and pictures of the 2nd production 787 out on the Everett flightline. The aircraft was moved out the paint hangar 45-03 and onto the ramp at Everett. The aircraft is registered as JA804A.

Inside building 40-26, Boeing workers continue to put together 787s LN 9 to LN 12 (all for ANA). It is expected that LN 13 should be in the Everett factory very soon.

You can view Matt Cawby's picture by clicking here you can also view his video of the aircraft roll out here. Notice that this aircraft also does not have its engines attached yet. That will happen closer to the delivery time.

Finally some 787 News

Well after a few weeks without any news of the 787's journey to first flight, Guy Norris at AWST put a posting this evening saying that Boeing is targeting a first flight for late December. Work is still not yet done on ZA001 and there is the validation work yet to be done on ZY997 which is the static test air frame. According to Guy, Boeing hope to get renewed gauntlet testing underway on ZA001 around Thanksgiving time in late November.

Assuming that the FAA and Boeing are in agreement on the fix and pre-flight gauntlet testing goes well, Boeing would be looking at first flight around Christmas time. Stay Tuned!

Late December First Flight Targeted for 787

Also Flightblogger has a great posting on Spirit and its delivery of the nose section of the 787. In his post, Flightblogger is reporting that Spirit will deliver 10 787 sections this year and will restart production of the fuselage barrels later this quarter to prepare for the ramp up to full production.

Spirit to deliver 10 787 shipsets

787 First flight a month away