Twenty years ago the aircraft we now know as the Dreamliner was named following a worldwide vote. Previously called the 7E7, the “Dreamliner” was one of four choices for Boeings new widebody 787 aircraft.
After receiving 500,000 votes from 160+ countries, the new name was announced at the Paris Air Show in 2003!
What’s in a name?
The name was chosen in a public competition that ran from May 5 to June 3, 2003. The winning name was announced on July 15, 2003, at the Paris Air Show 2003.
The other names that were considered for the Boeing 787 in the competition were:
- Global Cruiser
- Stratoclimber
- eLiner
But what we know as the Dreamliner today, may have been called something entirely different if the US had its way! If just the US votes were counted in the competition, the name Global Cruiser would have actually won.
When all the votes from world-wide were considered, the name Dreamliner actually won by only 2500 votes.
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The other names that were considered for the 787 were not as popular. The name “Global Cruiser” was seen as being too generic, while the name “Stratoclimber” was seen as being too technical. The name “eLiner” was seen as being too futuristic.
In the end, the name “Dreamliner” was chosen because it was seen as being the most appealing to the public. The name “Dreamliner” evokes a sense of hope and optimism, which is what Boeing was hoping to achieve with the 787 Dreamliner.
A series of firsts
The 787 Dreamliner is the first commercial airliner to be built primarily from carbon fiber composites, which makes it lighter and more fuel-efficient than traditional airliners.
It is also the first airliner to feature large, dimmable windows, which provide passengers with a more natural light experience. The 787 has been a commercial success, with over 10,000 orders placed by airlines around the world.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is a mid-size wide-body airliner manufactured by Boeing Commercial Airplanes.
The 787 Dreamliner is the first commercial airliner to be built primarily from carbon fiber composites, which makes it lighter and more fuel-efficient than traditional airliners.
It is also the first airliner to feature large, dimmable windows, which provide passengers with a more natural light experience. The 787 has been a commercial success, with over 10,000 orders placed by airlines around the world.
Development
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner was first announced in 2003. The aircraft was designed to be a more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to existing airliners.
The use of carbon fiber composites was a key factor in reducing the aircraft’s weight and fuel consumption.
The 787 Dreamliner also features a number of other innovations, such as new engines, a fly-by-wire flight control system, and a larger cabin with more space for passengers and cargo.
The First Flight
The first 787 Dreamliner took off on its maiden flight on December 15, 2009. The aircraft was piloted by Boeing test pilots Mike Carriker and Ken Biehl. The flight lasted for six hours and 20 minutes.
The first commercial flight of the 787 Dreamliner took place on February 14, 2011. The flight was operated by All Nippon Airways (ANA) from Tokyo to Nagoya, Japan.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner Today
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is now in service with airlines around the world. The aircraft has been praised for its comfort, efficiency, and environmental performance.
The 787 Dreamliner is a major technological achievement and a significant milestone in the history of commercial aviation.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is a long-term success for Boeing. The aircraft has been well-received by airlines and passengers alike. The 787 Dreamliner is expected to remain in production for many years to come.
Conclusion
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is a revolutionary aircraft that has changed the way we travel. The aircraft’s advanced technology and fuel-efficient design have made it a popular choice for airlines around the world.
The 787 Dreamliner is a major step forward in the history of commercial aviation and is sure to continue to play a major role in the industry for many years to come.
