The Boeing 787 Dreamliner first flew in 2009.
The prototype made its maiden flight from Paine Field in Everett, Washington, on December 15, 2009. The flight marked a major milestone for Boeing’s new twin-engine wide-body program, which emphasized fuel efficiency, composite structures, and improved passenger comfort.
The first flight came after substantial development delays. The 787 program had originally targeted an earlier first flight, but supply-chain problems, design changes, and other production issues pushed the schedule back.
The 787 did not enter airline service immediately after its maiden flight. Boeing continued a demanding flight-test and certification campaign, and All Nippon Airways operated the first commercial 787 service in 2011. The 787-8 was the initial production model, followed by the longer 787-9 and 787-10.