Due to heavy tailwinds approaching 200 mph (322 kph), the ground speed was calculated to have exceeded the speed of sound. However, did the 787 truly fly supersonic relative to the air? The answer is no.
People Also Ask
The transonic regime80, though no commercial aircraft in operation today exceeds Mach 1. Instead, they can achieve transonic speeds, including the Boeing 747–8I (cruising speed of Mach 0.86) and Airbus 380 (cruising speed of Mach 0.85).
The Dreamliner's lightweight composite structure contributes to reduced noise levels, both inside and outside the aircraft. The use of advanced soundproofing materials and quieter engines keeps the cabin environment more tranquil for passengers.
The carbon-fibre structure of the 787 allows the aircraft to be pressurized to a much higher level than on many other aircraft types. The lower the cabin altitude, the better you feel both during and after the flight, allowing your body to adjust to your new time zone more quickly.
•Because the 787 is pressurized at about 6,000 feet rather than 8,000 feet, you'll breathe easier. More oxygen in your lungs means better sleep, less chance of headache, no difficulty breathing (flying at altitude is like sleeping at a ski resort).
Currently, U.S. law prohibits flight in excess of Mach 1 over land unless specifically authorized by the FAA for purposes stated in the regulations. The two supersonic rulemaking activities would not rescind the prohibition of flight in excess of Mach 1 over land.
The Dreamliner is made with composite material, making it stronger, lighter and more aerodynamic. The aircraft can reach speeds of Mach 0.85, which is roughly equivalent to 640 miles per hour.
The Air InsideThe cabin pressure on the 787 is higher and the humidity higher than other airplanes. Basically, passengers on board will feel like they are at an altitude of 6,000 feet, 2,000 feet lower than a standard flight.
To put it into actual time, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner is certified for ETOPS-330. This means that the plane can fly on routes that take it 330 minutes from the nearest suitable airport for landing. To put this in perspective, the 787 can fly for five and a half hours on one engine.
2 Boeing 787 DreamlinerThe Dreamliner's lightweight composite structure contributes to reduced noise levels, both inside and outside the aircraft. The use of advanced soundproofing materials and quieter engines keeps the cabin environment more tranquil for passengers.
Boeing 787 DreamlinerYou can fly direct to selected long-haul destinations on our 13 state-of-the-art Dreamliners, including eight 787-8s and five 787-9s.