Boeing confirms 787 will be at Farnborough

Boeing made official on Friday what many had speculated about for weeks: The 787 will make its international debut later this month at the Farnborough Airshow.

This website reported last month that the manufacturer was planning to fly Dreamliner flight test aircraft ZA003 to the UK on Sunday, July 18, to participate in the show (ATW Daily News, June 24). "We've chosen Farnborough as a venue for spotlighting the breakthrough capabilities and innovations" represented by the 787, Boeing said in a statement Friday, adding that it expected "an optimistic mood" to prevail at Farnborough "amid signs of economic recovery."

It said ZA003 will touch down at Farnborough the morning of July 18 and remain on static display through midday July 20. ZA003 is being used "to test and certify seats, galleys and associated cabin safety and comfort systems, among other test points," the manufacturer said.

It added that Qatar Airways will display its newest 777-300ER at the show as well.