Issue 306: Taking Shape

Jetstar prepares for the 787

Jetstar’s dream of introducing the Boeing 787, with its step-change in operating economics and passenger comfort, is finally becoming reality.

In early June the first of 14 787-8 Dreamliners for the low-cost carrier arm of the Qantas Group entered final assembly at Boeing’s Everett facility ahead of a planned handover to Jetstar in late September. After a number of bumps along the way that has seen delivery of Jetstar’s first 787 delayed by five years in total, the promise of the aircraft, with its implementation of carbon fibre construction, new generation engines, bleedless electrical system and clean aerodynamic design that should deliver double-digit improvements in fuel burn and maintenance cost savings, plus an improved customer amenity thanks to a modern interior design, supersized-windows, low cabin pressure altitude and higher humidity, is about to be realised.