• Boeing 787 returns to Jetstar’s Melbourne home
• Airline preparations well underway for aircraft’s entry into service in 2013
• Visit provides a sneak peek of the 787 passenger experience

Jetstar today welcomed the return of the Boeing 787 as the aircraft makes a short visit to the airline’s home town of Melbourne.

David Hall, Chief Executive Officer (Australia and New Zealand) said the visit of the aircraft marked a significant milestone as the airline continues to get ready for the first 787-8 to enter service next year.

“We have a dedicated team in Melbourne who are now focussed on ensuring a smooth transition for the aircraft to enter the Jetstar fleet,” Mr Hall said.

“Jetstar’ s 787 entry in service team will be talking to Boeing engineers and examining all of the operational components of what is one of the most highly advanced commercial planes ever constructed.

“Our planning includes everything from preparing engineers to work with the mostly carbon fibre structure to training pilots for innovations in the 787 cockpit.

“As the first low cost carrier in the world to operate the 787, we are building a base of uniquely qualified engineers, pilots and crew right here in Australia.

“Once the initial tranche of Jetstar staff are trained and become qualified on the aircraft, we will then continue the roll out of our training program to the remainder of the 787 operating crew.”

John Duddy, Managing Director of Boeing Aerostructures Australia, said it was fitting the aircraft stopped off in Melbourne during the aircraft’s world tour.

“Australian innovation and expertise is a crucial part of every 787 Dreamliner. Employees at our facility in Port Melbourne are manufacturing the moveable trailing edge control surfaces for the wing of every Dreamliner – the largest aerospace contract in Australia worth $4 billion over 20 years,” Mr Duddy said.

Mr Hall said the aircraft’s Australian visit also showcased the improved passenger environment of the 787.

“The customer experience will be enhanced by significantly improved cabin altitude (6000ft instead of 8000ft), increased humidity (about 15 per cent higher), improved air filtration and passenger windows up to 65 per cent larger,” he said.

“Another benefit of the 787 is 20 per cent less fuel consumption compared to similar-sized twin-engine aircraft, making it more environmentally friendly.

“Ensuring our fleet is efficient and at the cutting edge of aviation technology is at the heart of what we do at Jetstar which is to continually drive innovation and value for our customers.”

Initially the 787 is intended to fly along the eastern seaboard before transferring onto long haul routes.*

*subject to regulatory approval