Key element of Dreamliner construction plan takes flight

It’s a global construction effort unlike any in the world.

On Monday, the Boeing Co. came a step closer to solidifying the logistics chain for its 787 Dreamliner with the first test flight of its new large cargo freighter.

The dramatically revamped 747 has an enlarged upper fuselage designed to carry assembly components for the 787 from Charleston, Wichita, Kan., Nagoya, Japan, and Grottaglie, Italy, to Boeing’s plant in Everett, Wash., for final assembly.

Since the Dreamliner project was launched in April 2004, 32 customers have logged 420 orders and commitments, of which 377 are firm orders valued at $59 billion, making the Dreamliner the most successful commercial aircraft launch in history, the company said.

Boeing is counting on the new freighter to reduce shipping time among its global network of contractors. But before that can happen, however, the freighter must be certified by the Federal Aviation Administration.

The test flight on Monday took off from Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport and lasted about two hours, Boeing officials said.

The freighter is to be flown to Boeing Field in Seattle for the remainder of the flight test program.

Boeing plans to build three of the enlarged 747s in time for the start of 787 production in the first quarter of 2007.