I wanted to quickly update you on the completion of two milestones as we approach first flight of the 787 Dreamliner.
We’ve just announced completion of the final functional testing, also known as final gauntlet.
We’ve also completed our review and analysis of the static test (to validate the side-of-body modifications) - and the airplane structure is validated for first flight.
During the static test, the wing and trailing edges of the airframe were subjected to limit load - the highest loads expected to be seen in service. In this image the wing is successfully deflecting 18 feet, or 105% of the limit load. Anything over 100% is considered successful.
Coming next are final flight readiness reviews, receipt of documentation from the FAA, and taxi testing. Of course, both taxi testing and first flight of ZA001, the first Dreamliner, are subject to weather conditions.
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Comments (14)
We are now waiting for the main wheels to separate with terra firma.
Congratulation to modification teams and engineers. And not to forget Supplier Quality team all over the world. We are now waiting for the D day.
Posted on December 10, 2009 17:57
Congratulations Boeing on the successful functional and static test.
Looking forward to the 1st test flight which will be great day for Boeing and the way to end the year 2009.
Posted on December 10, 2009 21:23
Congratulations!
I'm looking forward to seeing this gorgeous bird flying high over Seattle's skies!
Bravo~!
Posted on December 11, 2009 04:23
The whole Boeing team is behind you blue bird and now like the song says its time for you to "wake up, spread your wings and fly".
Posted on December 11, 2009 07:56
Don't forget to remind your test flight crew of the ancient and true aviation advice . . .
"Keep the greasy side down"
Looking forward to seeing the Dreamliner airborne.
Posted on December 11, 2009 10:30
All fingers and toes crossed. Would wish “good luck” except in this situation luck is inappropriate since it’s hit and miss, and the laws of probability preclude the possibility of there being any point in wishing an “indefinite good luck;” and yet, all fingers and toes crossed.
Posted on December 11, 2009 13:03
The time is close, just a few days until the first flight, this will be an early Christmas for me.
Posted on December 11, 2009 14:32
So glad to see this plane getting ready to fly. Everyone, both Airbus-lovers and Boeing-lovers, have been waiting for this moment. Good luck Dreamliner!
Posted on December 11, 2009 18:38
Fly, Fly, Fly....Light my fire baby!
Posted on December 12, 2009 01:44
We don't want one more last minute cancellation!!
It's time to see it flying!!!
Posted on December 12, 2009 03:36
Hurry on. The future of Boeing is relying on you! Cheer up Dreamliner!
Posted on December 12, 2009 06:23
Fly !!!!
Posted on December 12, 2009 15:00
Well, the side-of-body fix has just been validated. I'll take that as a hugely positive sign regarding more basic regular type repairs in commercial service. Well done.
Posted on December 13, 2009 07:13
When I experienced my first sight of the 787 I felt such pride that I shed a tear. In the our team's last staff meeting during the around the room time, I yelled for joy at the news of the first flight. Then, we all stood up and began chanting Boeing!!!! It was a great team building moment.
Posted on December 15, 2009 07:57
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