​​Iraqi Airways' very first Boeing 787-8 achieved a significant milestone on May 9th, taking off and successfully completing its first test flight. Departing from and returning to Boeing facilities in Charleston, the aircraft spent three hours in the air, flying circles off the South Carolina/Georgia coast.
Aircraft and flight details
As we noted in a previous article, this first 787 to go to Iraqi Airways is registered YI-ATC. Nearly two months after it was first spotted in its customer livery, the aircraft has taken off for its initial test flight.
On May 9th, FlightRadar24.com data shows that the aircraft took off from Charleston at 13:14 local time. The aircraft then flew east, out over the Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of Georgia and South Carolina. Then, it appears that the Boeing 787-8 flew three elongated loops before returning to Charleston airport at 16:16. The jet attained a maximum altitude of 37,000 feet and a maximum ground speed of approximately 545 kts.
This flight should be the first of several (but hopefully not too many) test flights prior to a delivery flight to Baghdad, Iraq.
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Inflight entertainment systems already selected
As we noted in mid-March, we don't know too much more about Iraqi Airways' future Dreamliner. However, Satellite Evolution Group notes that Iraqi Airways has selected Panasonic Avionics to provide inflight entertainment systems for its narrowbody and widebody jets - including its new Boeing 787-8s and -9s.
These systems will come from Panasonic - more specifically, the eX3 (X Series). These systems will include full HD seatback monitors, complete with capacitive touch displays. It's also reported that passengers can access USB and laptop charging power points at every seat. Panasonic Avionics will also provide global high-speed connectivity services onboard the Dreamliners.
“Iraqi Airways celebrates its partnership with Panasonic Avionics on its new fleet, as it will provide passengers with entertainment services as well as add unique internet services, and it will be an enjoyable experience for passengers during their flights with Iraqi Airways.” -Farazdaq Al-Qazaz, Configuration and EIS Program Manager, Iraqi Airways via Satellite Evolution Group
Iraqi Airways' undelivered aircraft
According to ch-aviation.com data, the airline is expecting to take delivery of the following airframes at the time of publication:
- 1x Airbus A220-300
- 10x Boeing 737-10
- 2x Boeing 737-8
- 9x Boeing 787-8
- and 1 Boeing 787-9
While it's positive news that the airline has taken delivery of additional 737 MAX 8s over the last two months, it's disappointing that the airline has had to ground its entire Airbus A220-300 fleet. This is reportedly the result of significant and unexpected engine deterioration.
Are you looking forward to Iraqi Airways getting its first Dreamliner? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment!
Sources: Planespotters.net, FlightRadar24.com, ch-aviation.com, Aviation Flights, Satellite Evolution Group