Boeing's Dreamliner cleared for longer flights

Boeing Co. said Wednesday its 787 Dreamliner has been cleared for longer flights by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration.

The Chicago-based aerospace company said the change will let airlines use the Dreamliner on additional routes. The Dreamliner is now allowed to fly up to 330 minutes, or six and a half hours, from a landing field. The jet had been limited to 180 minutes, or three hours, since it went into service in 2011.

“Our customers are eager to expand their 787 operations,” said Larry Loftis, Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president and general manager of the 787 program. “We’re delighted that this capability, which was designed into the airplane from the very beginning, has been certified.”

Boeing says the longer flights will make the 787 a more efficient airplane to operate.

The company has delivered 146 Dreamliners to 19 customers, and more than 1,030 787s have been ordered by 60 customers.

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