ANA landed the first Boeing 787 in Tokyo on Wednesday, continuing the U.S. manufacturer's dominance of Japan's aircraft market after long delays in delivering a jet that promises big fuel savings and other improvements.
The plane took off from Everett, Washington Tuesday morning to cheering workers after a three-year delay in bringing the new wide-body jetliner to market. Boeing ( BA - news - people ) missed the initial May 2008 delivery target and had repeatedly delayed its introduction because of problems in development.
The new jet is the first commercial airliner built using carbon fiber - a strong, lightweight, high-tech plastic - rather than the typical aluminum skin. It is quieter and uses about 20 percent less fuel than a comparably sized aluminum aircraft.
The 787 delivered to All Nippon Airways goes into service on Oct. 26 with a special charter flight from Narita International Airport to Hong Kong. ANA will begin using the 787 on regular domestic routes on Nov. 1.
Japanese companies played a major role in building the 787, accounting for 35 percent of its airframe structure, according to Boeing. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd. ( MHVYF.PK - news - people ) produces the wings, Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd. makes part of the fuselage, and Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. manufacturers the center wing box.
Boeing's relationship with Japan extends beyond the factory as well.
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