Air Canada has completed its first B787 Dreamliner flight between Boeing's Everett, Washington, headquarters and Toronto.
The aircraft, which was carrying 100 of the airline's employees, touched down at Toronto's Pearson airport yesterday afternoon.
It is the first of 37 Dreamliners that Air Canada has on order. It unveiled its B787 cabin design late last year (see news, December 2013).
Initially, the carrier will deploy the B787 on domestic routes, including Toronto to Montreal and Vancouver, for crew training purposes.
The aircraft will then be deployed on its first route proper to Tel Aviv, before it is added to Air Canada's Tokyo Haneda service in July (see news, December 2013).
The B787 is about 20 per cent more fuel efficient that similar-sized aircraft that it currently operates.
Calin Rovinescu, Air Canada's president and chief executive, said: "The B787 Dreamliner will immediately make a dramatic improvement to our fleet capabilities. The improvement in fuel use is extremely exciting for us. The range and economics unlock new destinations for customers, who will love the innovative look and comfort onboard."
Air Canada's Dreamliners will feature a three-class configuration, with 20 seats in business class, 21 in premium economy, and 210 in economy.
Improved cabin features include mood lighting, bigger windows, larger overhead bins, lower cabin altitude and enhanced ventilation systems.
Graham Smith
