Boeing Sets New 787 Dreamliner Test Flight Target

Boeing has confirmed that it now expects the first 787 Dreamliner flight to take place before the end of 2009 and the first delivery to occur in the fourth quarter of 2010.

The new schedule reflects the previously announced need to reinforce an area within the side-of-body section of the aircraft, along with the addition of several weeks of schedule margin to reduce flight test and certification risk.

The company is now aiming for a production rate of 10 airplanes per month in late 2013.

"This new schedule provides us the time needed to complete the remaining work necessary to put the 787's game-changing capability in the hands of our customers," said Boeing Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Jim McNerney. "The design details and implementation plan are nearly complete, and the team is preparing airplanes for modification and testing."

Costs previously recorded for the first three flight-test airplanes have also been reclassified from program inventory to research and development expense, resulting in an estimated non-cash charge of $2.5 billion pre-tax, or $2.21 per share, against third-quarter results.

See other recent news regarding: Travel News Asia, Boeing, 787, Dreamliner