Boeing to Begin Improved 787 Dreamliner Deliveries in First Half

• The improved 787 models are already in production and moving toward certification, with deliveries planned for first half of 2026
• Enhanced Dreamliners will allow airlines to extend range by 400 miles (643 km) or add 5-6 tons of cargo capacity
• Boeing's 777X certification is expected in second half of 2026, with first production flight planned for April, though commercial service entry depends on customer readiness

Summary: Boeing 787 Dreamliner Improvements and 777X Progress

Boeing announced it will begin delivering enhanced 787-9 and 787-10 Dreamliner aircraft to airlines in the first half of 2026, according to Darren Hulst, Vice President of Commercial Marketing, speaking at the Singapore Airshow on February 4, 2026.

Key Improvements:

The upgraded wide-body aircraft feature increased maximum takeoff weight, providing airlines with operational flexibility to either:

• Extend flight range by 400 miles (643 kilometers), or
• Carry an additional 5-6 tons of cargo

Hulst confirmed the improved aircraft are already in Boeing's production system and moving toward certification.

777X Update:

Boeing expects certification of its larger 777X aircraft in the second half of 2026, though commercial service entry may not occur until 2027. Hulst emphasized that the timing between certification and actual service depends on individual airline customers' delivery schedules and internal preparation processes. Reuters previously reported Boeing plans a first flight of a production 777X in April 2026, marking significant progress for the long-delayed program.

Market Implications:

The enhanced 787 capabilities should strengthen Boeing's competitive position in the wide-body market, offering airlines greater operational efficiency and route flexibility. The improvements come as the aviation industry faces supply chain constraints and rising demand. The 777X certification timeline remains critical for Boeing as the program has experienced substantial delays, with airline customers eagerly awaiting the aircraft to modernize their long-haul fleets.

These developments signal Boeing's efforts to deliver technological improvements and fulfill commitments on flagship aircraft programs amid ongoing industry recovery.