United Airlines has become the first North American carrier to take delivery of the new Boeing Dreamliner 787-9 aircraft.
The aircraft is the first of 26 United has on order.
The 787-9’s extended range, which is 8,550 miles compared to the 787-8’s 8,200, will enable United to launch its Los Angeles to Melbourne service on October 26.
Before that, United will mainly fly the aircraft between Houston and LA.
"The 787-9 builds on the Dreamliner’s fuel efficiency and customer comfort while giving us even more flexibility and range," said United’s vice president of fleet Ron Baur.
United’s 787-9 will be configured with 252 seats, 48 in United BusinessFirst and 204 in United Economy, including 88 Economy Plus seats with added legroom and increased personal space.
