New Boeing 787 engines put to the test

By KOMO Staff & News Services

Summary

The long-delayed Boeing 787 underwent another key test Thursday morning, firing up its new Rolls Royce engines for the first time as the company pushes for a first flight of the aircraft before July 1.

Story Published: May 21, 2009 at 12:43 PM PDT

Story Updated: Jun 23, 2009 at 4:02 PM PDT

New Boeing 787 engines put to the test
EVERETT, Wash. -- The new Boeing 787 underwent another key test Thursday morning, firing up its new Rolls Royce engines for the first time.

In video shot by Liz Matzelle at the Everett plant, smoke from the oil can be seen burning off as the engines are started.

Boeing spokesman Bernard Choi says the morning test was successful and more engine tests are planned.

Last month the company said planning the long-delayed first test flight of the 787 for before July 1.

The first test flight was planned for late 2007 with deliveries to begin in May 2008, but a series of delays resulted from four production snarls and an eight-week Machinists union strike last fall.

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More coverage of the engine test is available at Flightblogger.