FAA certification for 787 operations clears United to fly the type on commercial services, beginning with its inaugural 787 commercial flight departing Houston.
United Airlines has successfully completed the Federal Aviation Administration certification process for Boeing 787 Dreamliner operations and can now begin flying the Dreamliner for passenger service, beginning with its inaugural 787 commercial flight departing Houston for Chicago on November 4 at 7:20 a.m. CST.
The airline’s first Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner arrived at Houston Bush Intercontinental Airport on September 28 to begin a month-long certification program that included non-commercial flights to several of United’s domestic and international stations, totaling more than 100 flight hours.
During this time, the aircraft underwent a series of test scenarios, including diversions and simulated mechanical issues, in thorough preparation for service, according to United Airlines.
United Airlines has received two of the 50 Boeing 787-8 widebodies it has on order. The aircraft are configured with 36 seats in United Business First, 70 seats in United Economy Plus and 113 seats in United Economy.
According to United, passengers will experience greater comfort with improved lighting, bigger windows, larger overhead bins, lower cabin altitude and enhanced ventilation systems, among other passenger-friendly features.
A virtual tour of United’s Dreamliner is now available at www.unitedhub.com. The virtual tour provides a detailed look at the aircraft’s unique characteristics through a variety of animated, interactive features.
The tour enables viewers to sample the Dreamliner’s United Business First seats, electro chromatic window shades, six styles of LED cabin lighting and more.
According to United, the virtual tour also includes segments on the 787’s state-of-the-art flight deck, crew rest areas and lavatories, as well as information about the Dreamliner’s General Electric GEnx engines, wing technology and cargo capabilities.
A “facts & figures” section of the tour offers a series of graphics that illustrate the 787’s capabilities and specifications.