Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner (B78X)

The Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner (ICAO: B78X) is the largest member of the Boeing 787 family. Combining the advanced technology and fuel efficiency of the Dreamliner programme with increased passenger capacity, it is designed for high-demand medium- and long-haul routes. Since entering service in 2018, the 787-10 has become a popular choice for airlines seeking lower operating costs while offering passengers a modern and comfortable travel experience.

History

Boeing officially launched the 787-10 in 2013 as a stretched version of the 787-9. While it shares the same wings, engines, and advanced composite structure as its smaller siblings, the longer fuselage allows airlines to carry around 15% more passengers.

The aircraft made its first flight on 31 March 2017 and entered commercial service with Singapore Airlines in 2018. Unlike the 787-8 and 787-9, the 787-10 prioritises passenger capacity over maximum range, making it ideal for busy regional and intercontinental routes.

Design

Like all members of the Dreamliner family, the Boeing 787-10 is built primarily from lightweight carbon-fibre composites, reducing weight and improving fuel efficiency. It also features advanced aerodynamics, raked wingtips, quieter engines, and a modern fly-by-wire flight deck.

Passengers benefit from larger electronically dimmable windows, improved cabin humidity, lower cabin altitude, spacious overhead bins, and LED mood lighting, all designed to reduce fatigue on long flights.

The aircraft is powered by either the General Electric GEnx-1B or the Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 TEN, delivering outstanding efficiency and lower emissions compared with previous-generation wide-body aircraft.

Specifications

SpecificationBoeing 787-10 Dreamliner
ManufacturerBoeing
ICAO CodeB78X
First Flight31 March 2017
Entry into Service2018
Length68.28 m
Wingspan60.12 m
Height17.02 m
Typical Seating318–336 passengers
Maximum SeatingUp to 440 passengers
RangeUp to 11,910 km (6,430 nm)
Cruising SpeedMach 0.85 (approximately 913 km/h)
Engines2 × General Electric GEnx-1B or Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 TEN
Flight Crew2

Operators

The Boeing 787-10 is operated by a growing number of airlines around the world, including:

  • Singapore Airlines
  • United Airlines
  • British Airways
  • EVA Air
  • All Nippon Airways (ANA)
  • Etihad Airways
  • KLM
  • Saudia
  • Vietnam Airlines
  • Korean Air

As production continues, additional airlines are introducing the type to replace older Airbus A330s, Boeing 777-200s, and Airbus A340s.

Legacy

The Boeing 787-10 represents the evolution of the Dreamliner family, combining the latest aviation technology with high passenger capacity and exceptional fuel efficiency. Although it has a shorter range than the 787-9, its economics make it one of the most efficient wide-body aircraft in service today.

With its spacious cabin, advanced passenger experience, and lower operating costs, the Boeing 787-10 continues to shape the future of medium- and long-haul air travel and remains a key member of Boeing’s modern wide-body fleet.

My Experience

I flew on the Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner with Etihad Airways on 20 September 2019, travelling on flight EY83 from Abu Dhabi (AUH) to Rome Fiumicino (FCO). The flight was operated by A6-BME, one of Etihad Airways’ Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, covering a distance of approximately 2,700 miles (4,345 km).

This flight gave me the opportunity to experience the largest member of the Dreamliner family. The Boeing 787-10 impressed me with its quiet cabin, smooth ride, and modern passenger experience. Features such as the larger windows, improved cabin humidity, and comfortable interior made the journey especially enjoyable. Flying from the Middle East into Italy also offered beautiful views during the descent into Rome, making it a memorable experience aboard one of Boeing’s newest wide-body aircraft.