Overview of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner is a commercial airliner manufactured by Boeing. It is part of the Dreamliner family, which includes several variants with different maximum takeoff weights and ranges. The primary purpose of the 787-9 is to provide efficient and comfortable transportation for passengers.
Technical Specifications
The technical specifications of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner are as follows:
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Dimensions:
- Length: 193.68 feet (59.07 meters)
- Wingspan: 186.08 feet (56.7 meters)
- Height: 55.12 feet (16.77 meters)
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Weight:
- Empty weight: 143,000 pounds (64,795 kilograms)
- Maximum takeoff weight: 502,500 pounds (227,453 kilograms)
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Engines:
- Type: General Electric GEnx-1B
- Thrust: 64,000-70,000 pounds-force (286,760-313,770 Newtons)
- Fuel efficiency: Up to 20% better than similar aircraft
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Performance:
- Maximum speed: Mach 0.85 (647 mph or 1,041 km/h)
- Range: Up to 8,555 nautical miles (15,844 kilometers)
- Cruising altitude: 35,000-40,000 feet (10,668-12,192 meters)
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Capacity:
- Passengers: Up to 330
- Cargo: Up to 15,000 pounds (6,804 kilograms)
- Crew: Typically two pilots and one or more flight attendants
Design and Features
The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner features several innovative design elements. The aircraft has a raked wingtip, which reduces drag and improves fuel efficiency. It also uses advanced materials such as carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) for the fuselage and wings, reducing weight and increasing strength.
History and Development
The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner began development in the early 2000s. The first flight took place on September 24, 2007, and the aircraft received its type certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in August 2011. The first delivery took place in September 2014.
- Key milestones:
- First flight: September 24, 2007
- Certification: August 2011
- Entry into service: September 2014
- Challenges faced during development:
- Sourcing of advanced materials
- Integration of new systems and technologies
- Managing production costs
- Significant upgrades or variants:
- Boeing 787-8: The initial variant with a shorter range
- Boeing 787-10: A longer-range variant introduced in 2017
Operational Use
The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner is used by several airlines and organizations. It has become a popular choice for long-haul flights due to its efficient performance and comfortable amenities.
- Airlines or organizations that operate it:
- United Airlines
- Air Canada
- Japan Airlines
- Turkish Airlines
- Popular routes or missions:
- Transpacific flights between North America and Asia
- Long-haul flights within the Americas
- Military operations (in some cases)
- Role in aviation history:
- Servicing as a high-speed testbed for new technologies
- Pioneering the use of advanced materials and manufacturing techniques
Interesting Facts
The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner has several interesting facts:
- Unique design choices:
- Raked wingtips to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency
- Large windows for improved passenger views
- Famous flights or events:
- Setting records for longest flight duration and distance
- Servicing as a high-speed testbed for new technologies
- Pioneering the use of advanced materials and manufacturing techniques:
Conclusion
The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner is a cutting-edge commercial aircraft that has revolutionized the aviation industry. Its efficient performance, comfortable amenities, and innovative design make it an attractive choice for passengers and airlines alike.