Boeing, Etihad announce flying laboratory with 787 Dreamliner
November 18, 2019: Boeing and Etihad Airways today announced plan to use one of the airline's 787 Dreamliner as a flying laboratory for testing and initiatives that could cut fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
November 18, 2019: Boeing and Etihad Airways today announced plan to use one of the airline's 787 Dreamliner as a flying laboratory for testing and initiatives that could cut fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
"Innovation, productivity and sustainability are core values and objectives of Etihad Airways and of Abu Dhabi. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is a key enabler of all three,” said Tony Douglas, group chief executive, Etihad Aviation Group, at the 2019 Dubai Airshow.
Say hello to our brand new 787 Greenliner!
In partnership with Boeing, this one-of-a-kind aircraft will be used to test technology, products, and initiatives designed to help reduce carbon emissions and build a future of sustainable air travel. pic.twitter.com/MCXgLgmAgw
The specially-themed 787 will come into service early next year and operate regular flights in Etihad Airways' network, while occasionally serving as a testbed for examining ecological sustainability initiatives.
"The 787 Dreamliner and its track record of environmental performance make it the perfect platform to advance our industry's commitment to sustainable growth," said Stan Deal, president and chief executive officer, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Etihad Airways to identify more opportunities to improve efficiency across commercial aviation."
Beyond the environmental testing on the airplane, the two companies will build on the technical capabilities that Etihad Airways has developed while maintaining its own Dreamliner fleet and that of other operators. As part of the strategic partnership, the companies are discussing several areas where they can work together to improve operational efficiency.
Boeing and Etihad Airways also announced that Boeing will provide multiple services for the airline's Dreamliner fleet, including the component services program, landing gear exchange, and high-value components exchange, programs that help an airline simplify asset and maintenance management, reduce spare parts costs while improving parts availability. The agreements also include a customized material parts package and three Quick Engine Change (QEC) kits that enable Etihad to quickly return an airplane to service if an engine needs to be repaired or replaced.
"Boeing's global supply chain footprint will allow ready access to parts, support and services, when and where it's needed," said Ted Colbert, president and chief executive officer of Boeing Global Services. "We are proud to partner with Etihad Airways to increase maintenance efficiency and maintain aircraft operability."