United Airlines was the first commercial operator of the Boeing 777, beginning service in 1995.
United introduced the aircraft on June 7, 1995, with a flight from London Heathrow to Washington Dulles. The route was significant because the 777 was designed as a large, long-range twin-engine aircraft for major international services. United had ordered the type and worked closely with Boeing during its development.
The Boeing 777 was the first commercial aircraft to be designed entirely with computer-aided design. It also became known for its large fuselage, spacious twin-aisle cabin, and powerful turbofan engines. Different versions later extended its range, capacity, and cargo capability.
British Airways became the first European airline to operate the 777, but it was not the launch operator. Singapore Airlines also became one of the type’s major early customers. The aircraft ultimately grew into one of the most widely used long-haul wide-body families in commercial aviation.