Side-of-body installations complete on first B787 Dreamliner

Boeing (12-Nov-2009) completed installation of reinforcements within the side-of-body section on the first B787. The modification entails installing new fittings at 34 stringer locations within the joint where the wing is attached to the fuselage. Boeing expects to complete the installations on the static test airframe and the second flight-test airplane in the coming days. [more]

Boeing: "Completing this work is a significant step toward first flight. We continue to be pleased with the progress of the team and remain confident the first flight of the 787 Dreamliner will occur before the end of the year. We will test the modification on the full-scale static test airframe later this month. As soon as we confirm the loads are being handled appropriately in the joint we will complete preflight activities on the airplane," Scott Fancher, VP & General Manager B787 programme. Source: Boeing, 12-Nov-2009.