Which airline was the first to operate the Boeing 787 Dreamliner commercially in 2011?

All Nippon Airways was the first airline to operate the Boeing 787 Dreamliner commercially in 2011. The Japanese carrier received the aircraft after a heavily delayed development and testing program.

ANA’s first 787 passenger flight took place on 26 October 2011, operating between Tokyo and Hong Kong. The aircraft was designed as a long-range twin-engine jet with a composite airframe, larger windows, higher cabin humidity, and systems intended to improve passenger comfort.

Boeing had originally planned a much earlier entry into service, but technical and production problems delayed the 787 by more than three years. ANA’s launch operation therefore marked a significant milestone for both Boeing and the airline.

United Airlines became an important early 787 operator in the United States, while Japan Airlines also received early aircraft. Neither airline was the worldwide launch operator.