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"Today we celebrate a significant moment
in the history of flight," said Jim McNerney,
Boeing chairman, president and CEO. "The
787 Dreamliner is the biggest innovation in commercial
aviation since the Boeing 707 introduced the world
to passenger jet travel more than 50 years ago.
I want to thank ANA and all the employees of Boeing
and our partner companies for the talent, technology
and teamwork that have brought this game-changing
airplane to life."
During the ceremony, Boeing Commercial Airplanes
President and CEO Jim Albaugh presented a ceremonial
key to Shinichiro Ito, president and CEO of ANA.
"It's not often that we have the chance
to make history, do something big and bold that
will change the world in untold ways and endure
long after we are gone," said Albaugh. "That's
what the 787 Dreamliner is and what ANA and Boeing
have done together – build what truly is
the first new airplane of the 21st century."
"We are delighted to be taking delivery
finally of our first 787. ANA is extremely proud
to be the launch customer for the Dreamliner and
to have helped Boeing so closely in the development
of this state-of-the-art aircraft," said
Ito. "The Dreamliner will enable us to offer
unrivalled standards of service and comfort to
our passengers and will play a key part in ANA's
plans for international expansion."
Made from composite materials, the Boeing 787
Dreamliner is the first mid-size airplane capable
of flying long-range routes and will allow airlines
to open new, non-stop routes preferred by the
traveling public. In addition to providing airlines
with unprecedented fuel economy and low operating
costs, the 787 features a host of new technologies
that greatly enhance the passenger experience.
"Today you join the ranks of the legends
of our industry," said Pat Shanahan, Boeing
Commercial Airplanes vice president and general
manager, Airplane Programs. "I have no doubt
that 30 or 40 years from now another outstanding
Boeing team will be celebrating a new version
of the 787 Dreamliner. They will struggle to find
the words to express their deep respect and admiration
for the hard work you have done in getting us
to this day and laying the foundation for a strong
future for Boeing and for our industry."
"I've been inspired by your passion, your
commitment and your dedication. You made the 787
Dreamliner a reality," said Scott Fancher,
Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president and
general manager, 787 program. "Your achievement
we celebrate today is extraordinary, and it will
be remembered for years to come."
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