Boeing 787 Dreamliner Set to Revolutionize Air Travel

Credit: Katkreig

The new Boeing 787 has an advanced cabin air-conditioning system, among other improvements

The comfortable and efficient new Boeing 787 Dreamliner is set to revolutionize the way we fly
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The successful test flight of the new Boeing 787 Dreamliner marks the introduction of a whole new generation of aircraft, as well as a technological milestone.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner took to the air on its maiden test flight on December 15 in Everett, Washington. Ever since, the Dreamliner has been garnering attention around the world, not only for its sophisticated look, but also for its technological innovations.


The new Boeing craft is the world’s first commercial airplane made from a one-piece fuselage and composite materials as opposed to hundreds, even thousands, of pieces of metal. This revolutionary design makes its airframe lighter, stronger and more fuel-efficient, but just as fast as today’s fastest commercial airplanes.


But that’s just the start. The Dreamliner also features larger eye-level windows without sliding plastic shades because they’re constructed to act like the tinted windows in a car. You can actually adjust the level of light coming in your own window.


The Dreamliner carries between 200 and 300 passengers, who will be able to fly much more comfortably than in a standard aircraft thanks to increased humidity in the cabin, meaning less airsickness and higher levels of oxygen supply. An advanced cabin air-conditioning system provides better air quality: ozone is removed from outside air; HEPA filters remove bacteria, viruses and fungi; and a gaseous filtration system removes odours, irritants and gaseous contaminants. Altogether, this could hopefully mean fewer “airplane colds.”

Inside the cabin, passengers will also enjoy more stowage space and improved lighting.


Boeing engineers also designed the 787 interior to better accommodate those with disabilities. For example, a convertible lavatory includes a movable centre wall that allows two separate lavatories to become one large, wheelchair-accessible facility.


In addition, the 787 has been designed with the “green revolution” in mind. It’s estimated to use 20 per cent less fuel than a similar-size conventional airplane, and it produces lower emissions.


So far, 57 airlines around the world, including Air Canada, British Airways and others, have placed orders for 876 Dreamliners in total, making the 787 the fastest-selling new commercial jetliner in history.

Originally published in TV Week. For daily updates, subscribe to the free TV Week e-newsletter, or purchase a subscription to the weekly magazine.