Boeing completes flight tests for GE's B787 engines

This marks the end of all certification flight testing associated with the baseline model of the 787. Testing on engine and airframe improvements will continue as needed, as it does for all airplane programs.

Ground testing to complete certification requirements has also concluded.

"The last phase of testing focused on extended operations onboard a production airplane," said Mike Sinnett, vice president and chief project engineer, 787 program. "The airplane performed beautifully during this testing, further demonstrating its reliability."

The final flight concluded late last month with the landing of the 35th 787 built.

Flight testing is one of many elements reviewed by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration before it certifies a new airplane type. Certification of the 787 Dreamliner with Rolls-Royce engines was completed in August 2011. Each new combination of airframe type and engine requires additional certification.

"I want to congratulate all of the men and women of Boeing and our partners who helped support our flight test program," Sinnett said. "They have completed the most robust, thorough flight test program in our history."

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner features a wide array of passenger amenities including larger windows, cleaner air, higher humidity and a lower cabin altitude.

Industry analyst Saj Ahmad said: "Completion of flight testing for the GEnx will be welcome news in the GCC, particularly for the likes of Etihad, Royal Jordanian Airlines, Qatar Airways and others- all of whom who are key 787 customers that will be using this new engine.
 
With Qatar Airways gearing up for their first 787-8 delivery early this summer and with the anticipated prospect of being the first airline to showcase their airplane at the upcoming Farnborough Air Show, approval from the FAA and EASA is just a matter of days away and will be a welcome relief for Boeing as they turn their attention to assembly of the stretched 787-9 which is poised to enter service in 2014 with Air New Zealand, and of which Etihad has orders for 41 787-9s.
 
Later on this year, Boeing will be looking to its board to authorise the 787-10X, a further stretch of the 787-9 to replace ageing A330-300s and with a groundswell of airline support for this model, particularly from Emirates, the 787 seems to have turned a corner in its life and is now maturing at a  faster rate than previously envisioned. While concerns remain about the fractured supply chain, Boeing will no doubt be pleased that the 787 family is making headlines for the right reasons after three years of crippling delays."