UK's first 787 Dreamliner delivered to Thomson Airways
The Thomson 787 Dreamliner will touch down on British soil for the very first time at 11am, having flown from the Boeing Everett Factory in Seattle. It will be followed with the delivery of a further three Thomson 787 aircraft this summer.
Thomson Airways will fly the Dreamliner from London Gatwick, Manchester, East Midlands and Glasgow airports, on long haul routes to Sanford, Florida and Cancun in Mexico, starting from July 8 2013.
Chris Browne, managing director of Thomson Airways, said: “After much anticipation we are very excited to welcome the 787 Dreamliner to our fleet and as the first airline in the UK to take delivery we hope our customers will enjoy the unique experience of this revolutionary aircraft.
“The introduction of the Dreamliner is a major milestone in our journey of modernising the holiday experience. Customers will be amazed at the unique look, feel and service – all of which will ensure the unique Thomson holiday experience starts as soon as they step on board this fabulous new aircraft.
“The extended flying range of the Dreamliner also unlocks a host of new and exciting holiday options for our customers, increasing the range of long haul destinations available with Thomson Airways, from four UK airports this summer.
“This winter we’ll fly the Dreamliner direct to Phuket in Thailand and from summer 2014 we will be introducing holidays to Mauritius and Puerto Vallarta, flying direct on our new 787 aircraft.”
Ken O’Toole, chief commercial officer for the Manchester Airports Group (MAG), said: “We’re delighted to welcome the aircraft to Manchester and pleased for Thomson Airways that it will enter service this Summer, taking passengers from the North to Mexico and Florida. The aircraft opens up new possibilities for the long haul market from Manchester and East Midlands Airport and we aim to support Thomson to realise the potential of the new aircraft. The 787 Dreamliner brings new routes not previously offered into range and will be a welcome addition to customers who want to fly long haul from their local airport.”
Todd Nelp, Boeing’s vice president European sales, said: "Today's 787 delivery represents a very significant milestone in the on-going partnership between Boeing and Thomson Airways. Thomson becomes the first UK airline to operate the 787, the most technologically advanced and fuel efficient commercial jetliner ever built.
“Thomson’s passengers will experience unparalleled levels of comfort with the 787's improved lighting, bigger windows, larger overhead bins, lower cabin altitude and enhanced ventilation systems.
“This delivery marks the next chapter in history for both Thomson and the UK aviation industry."
The Thomson 787 Dreamliner will carry 291 passengers. Premium Club will seat 47 in a 2-3-2 configuration, each with a 38” pitch, and Economy Club will seat 244 in a 3-3-3 configuration, each with a 33” or 34” pitch.
Thomson Airways will be taking delivery of eight Boeing 787 Dreamliners in total, up to May 2015. Thomson’s first long-haul Dreamliner flights will operate from Manchester to Florida and Glasgow to Cancun, on July 8 2013.
