BY JAMES WILKINSON

The futuristic Boeing 787 Dreamliner made its second visit to Australia last weekend (May 27), showcasing what will be a reality for the Qantas Group in just over 12 months time.

The old and the new: the B787 passes a Qantas B767

Both Qantas and Jetstar have orders for the lightweight, super-fuel efficient aircraft with Boeing and the first of 50 B787s will be delivered to Jetstar in the second half of 2013.

Qantas’ first B787 – rumoured to seat approximately 250 people in three classes (Business, Premium Economy and Economy) – is expected to be delivered soon after in early 2014. Jetstar, which will use the aircraft on flights to Hawaii, Japan and Bali, is expected to operate two-class 313-seat B787-8s.

Jetstar’s Chief Executive Officer for Australia and New Zealand, David Hall, said the airline was excited to see the aircraft in Australia and teams were in place in preparation for the B787’s entry into service next year.

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

Jetstar will be the first low-cost airline in the world to operate the Boeing 787.