Announces End Of Flight Test Program For Rolls-Royce-Powered Airplanes

All flight tests required for type certification of the 787-8 Dreamliner with Rolls-Royce engines were completed this weekend, according to Boeing. The all-new jetliner is bringing unprecedented levels of fuel economy, maintenance cost improvements, and environmental sensitivity to the marketplace through the use of new technologies including composites, more-electric systems, advanced aerodynamics and the latest advancements in propulsion.

Final Test Flight Ends At Paine Field

"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 final flight occurred Saturday onboard ZA102, the ninth 787 to be built. Capt. Mike Carriker, chief pilot for the 787 program, brought ZA102 back to its home base at Paine Field in Everett at 1358 PDT following a 90 minute flight that originated in Billings, MT. During the flight, the 14-person crew completed simulations of a dispatch with a failed generator and failed fuel flow indication.
 
"When ZA102 returned to Paine Field, it brought back with it the hopes and dreams of the many thousands of men and women of Boeing and our global partners who have worked so long for this day," Fancher said. "Their hard work and commitment to this amazing airplane has been a true inspiration. We look forward to making our first delivery to our good friends at ANA in September."
 
Flight testing continues for 787s with GE engines and for Boeing test points not related to certification.

FMI: www.boeing.com