Jetstar’s first Boeing 787 touches down in Melbourne

Qantas Group stated (09-Oct-2013) Jetstar's first Boeing 787 arrived in Melbourne following a 13,000km journey from Boeing's Everett factory in Seattle. Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said, "Today is historic for the Qantas Group and Jetstar. We have taken delivery of the world's most advanced passenger aircraft. The 787 offers not only a superior passenger experience, but also the benefits of lower fuel burn and less carbon emissions. This is a great aircraft to travel on. From larger windows and better cabin pressure, the 787 provides a new level of passenger comfort. The lower fuel burn supports Jetstar's mission to provide all day everyday low fares. We know the first 787 flights are going to be very popular and many customers, and we're looking forward to welcoming another 13 Boeing 787s to the fleet". Jetstar Group CEO Jayne Hrdlicka confirmed the first international route of the 787, stating: "I am delighted to announce that our first scheduled international services will depart Melbourne to one of our most popular destinations - Bali, with the 787 operating a daily service over the summer period. Tickets are now on sale for our first 787 flight to Bali on Wednesday 18 December. We expect to add more destinations, including Phuket, Japan, Hawaii and Singapore, to the 787's flying schedule as we receive more aircraft". Jetstar 787s are configured with 335 seats, including 21 business and 314 economy seats. Subject to the certification, Jetstar expects to have three 787s operating early 2014 and an all 787 long-haul fleet by the end of 2015. Arrival of Jetstar's 787s will see existing A330s transferred to Qantas, following a refit of the cabins. This will enable the progressive retirement of Qantas' Boeing 767 fleet by mid-2015. [more - original PR]