FIRST Choice Airways expects to take a significant lead over its rivals by being among the first carriers to operate the ground-breaking Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
Boeing claims the aircraft will eliminate jet lag on long-haul flights, yet it will be able to operate non-stop from UK regional airports to the US West Coast, South Africa, the Far East and the north coast of Australia.
First Choice expects the long-haul market to comprise 20% of its programme by 2010, a year into the 787’s operation.
The carrier has ordered six, and has options on six more, with the first to be delivered in spring 2009 – a year after the scheduled commercial launch.
Managing director Chris Browne joined Boeing to show off the 787’s features at last week’s Farnborough Air Show.
The lighter, stronger carbon fibre used in its construction allow the aircraft to be pressurised at a level equivalent to 6,000 feet – most commercial aircraft operate at 8,000 feet. Studies suggest passengers will have 10% more oxygen in their blood and so will not suffer jet lag.
Boeing says the 787 will be 20% more efficient on fuel, and its range will mean additional savings from being able to fly non-stop.
Seat pitch in economy could be up to 37 inches.
But Browne said: “Seat pitch is just one of several features we’re looking at, such as the aisles and seat width.”
A combination of the aircraft’s range and fuel efficiency, coupled with its ability to use shorter runways, should make it highly economical.
Browne added: “We’ll be cautious in year one and fly the normal routes – mainly the Caribbean, predominantly from Manchester and Gatwick.
“But in year two we’ll look at more exciting destinations. People want the beach, but in Brazil as much as Benidorm.”
Dreamliner facts
- Launch due in 2008
- Medium-size, long range – 9,750 miles
- Primarily made of carbon fibre, not aluminium
- Pressurised to reduce jet lag, with improved air quality
- Mood lighting
- Uses 20% less fuel than comparable mid-size aircraft
- Generates up to 60% less noise
- Cabin 15ins wider than Airbus rival; windows 65% bigger plus larger luggage bins and toilets