Boeing 787 on Final Approach to YVR

Vancouver International Airport Ushers in the Year of the Dreamliner

RICHMOND, BC, Jan. 8, 2014 /CNW/ - Vancouver International Airport (YVR) ushered in the Year of the Dreamliner today with Japan Airlines' announcement that it will begin Boeing 787 operations on its daily non-stop service between YVR and Tokyo's Narita Airport (NRT) beginning Monday, February 3, 2014. This inaugural will mark the first-ever scheduled arrival of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner to YVR.

"Metro Vancouver's community of aviation enthusiasts – me included – is thrilled to welcome the Dreamliner to YVR," said Craig Richmond, President & CEO, Vancouver Airport Authority. "Japan Airlines has connected travellers between Vancouver and Tokyo since 1968. After 45 years of great history and close to 23,000 flights, we are so pleased to celebrate JAL's next chapter with the latest in aircraft technology." 

With its modern systems, advanced engine technology and unique composite structure, Boeing's 787 Dreamliner series delivers big-jet range in a mid-size airplane, all while achieving Mach 0.85 speed, unmatched fuel efficiency and improved passenger comfort. Customers aboard the new aircraft will enjoy a substantial improvement to the in-cabin experience, with wider aisles, larger windows with adjustable tint, cleaner and more comfortable air, lower cabin altitude and a smoother, quieter ride. 

JAL will introduce the 787-8 Dreamliner to the YVR-NRT route using a phased approach, beginning with one weekly flight on Mondays and extending to its daily flights by March 2014.  

JAL's Dreamliner service is expected to be followed by additional Boeing 787 announcements, as other YVR airlines take delivery of their new aircraft and plan routes and service schedules for the balance of 2014.

YVR will work with its airline partners to host official inaugural events, including tours and contests.  Updates on YVR's Year of the Dreamliner will be shared online, at yvr.ca and through YVR's social media channels. Stay tuned.

About Vancouver Airport Authority
Vancouver Airport Authority is a community-based, not-for-profit organization that manages Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Canada's second busiest airport, YVR served 17.6 million passengers in 2012, facilitated 261,000 takeoffs and landings and handled 227,000 tonnes of cargo. Sixty-eight airlines serve YVR, connecting people and businesses to more than 120 destinations worldwide. Vancouver Airport Authority is a dedicated community partner and in 2013, donated more than $700,000 to community organizations. We are committed to creating an airport that British Columbia can be proud of: a premier global gateway, local economic generator and community contributor.

SOURCE: Vancouver Airport Authority

YVR Media Relations, 604.880.9815; [email protected], www.yvr.ca, Twitter: @yvrairport