Delays Won't Affect Deliveries of VIP 787s

Despite "challenges" in assembly of the first Boeing 787 prototype that have forced delay of the first flight and certification by at least six months, Boeing Business Jets does not expect to have to reschedule delivery dates for executive models of the jetliner. Boeing claims to have firm orders for nine executive 787s, two of which will go to an unidentified leasing company. According to Boeing Business Jets president Steven Hill, the first airplane is scheduled for delivery to an independent completion center for outfitting in May 2010. The next available slot is in early 2016. The 787 will offer a maximum cabin altitude of 6,000 feet, an improved air-purification system, a cruise speed of Mach 0.85 and a range of about 8,000 nautical miles.