Boeing Completes Flight Testing for Certification of 787s with GE Engines

EVERETT, Wash., March 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) has completed all flight tests expected to be required for type certification of the 787-8 Dreamliner with General Electric GEnx 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.