ANA Flies First Boeing 787 Dreamliner

The highly-touted Boeing Dreamliner flew its first commercial flight this month after much delay. Paying customers on ANA (All Nippon Airways), one of Japan's largest airlines, had the privilege of flying this inaugural flight from Tokyo to Hong Kong. Though the jet seats 264, only 100 were made available to the public. The balance of seats offered to a mix of journalists, airlines officials and industry workers.

The 787 is supposed to usher in a modern design for passenger comfort including:

Larger Windows. The feature is 30% bigger on the 787 compared to those on Boeing's 767 and positioned closer to eye level offering even passengers not seated by the window a view. The windows do not have manual shades but instead are darkened by a button control that electronically dim the light partially or completely.

Bigger Storage Bins. Designed to accommodate the standard carry-on rollers bags, the bins are 30% bigger than on Boeing's 777 aircrafts. Boeing believes the design allows passengers to more easily fit their bags into the bins that will help more flights take off on time.

Comfortable Cabin Environment. The Dreamliner is pressurized at 6,000 feet elevation in lieu of the 8,000 that is typical for most passenger aircraft. Combined with a higher humidity, passengers should experience less headaches, fatigue and jet lag that accompanies flying. LED lighting illuminates the cabin gently creating a more relaxing space.

Washlet-Equpped Lavatories. The ANA 787 has toilet seats with a warm-water bidet function in each class of service.

Other Features include:
Cabin Design. Vaulted ceilings help play off the larger windows to make the cabin feel more spacious.

Gadget Friendly. ANA offers USB posts and electric outlets at every seat.

Quieter Cabin. Boeing reports that cabin noise on the 787 will be lower compared to other long-haul jets.

One thing that passengers won't notice but the airlines appreciate is the Dreamliner's reduced weight and aerodynamic profile that will increase fuel efficiency up to 20%. Unlike the Airbus A380 which no U.S carrier operates, orders for the 787 Dreamliner have been placed by United and Delta. Critics caution passengers that the perception of the plane will depend on each airline tailors and customizes the experience. Visit ana.com to learn more about the artiness 787 Dreamliner.

ANA long-haul first class seats.

ANA economy seats.