Ethiopia Airlines dreamliner arrives
2012-08-15 11:55
Seattle - Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines celebrated today the
delivery of the airline's first 787 Dreamliner.
"Today begins the
first day in a new era of flying for our passengers and brings us even closer
to our vision for the future, Vision 2025," said Tewolde GebreMariam, CEO
of Ethiopian Airlines.
"We are pleased... to receive this technologically advanced aircraft. We have
been waiting for this airplane and now that we officially have it and will show
it to the world, I can say with pride, it was worth the wait. This airplane is
going to move Ethiopian Airlines to the forefront of aviation leadership around
the globe."
The 787 Dreamliner is
composed of light-weight composites and features numerous system, engine and
aerodynamic advancements making it more efficient to operate compared with its
competition. It is the first mid-sized airplane capable of flying long-range
routes, enabling airlines to open new, non-stop routes preferred by passengers.
"Today marks not just
another milestone for Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines, but a new beginning in our
65-year partnership," said Van Rex Gallard, vice president of Sales for
Africa, Latin America, & Caribbean, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.
"Ethiopian Airlines continues to show their strong leadership in African
aviation and their growing presence around the globe. Being the first in Africa
and one of the first in the world further confirms their position
globally."
After taking delivery,
Ethiopian Airlines will fly its Dreamliner to Washington DC where the aircraft will be
on display and is expected to be visited by VIP guests and media.
The aircraft will then make
its inaugural trip to Africa with its first revenue flight from Dulles
International Airport to Bole Addis Ababa International Airport.
Ethiopian Airways has nine
more 787 Dreamliners remaining on order.
