Boeing's Dreamlifter, a modified 747-400 aircraft, plays a crucial role in the global supply chain for Boeing's 787 Dreamliner. While Miami International Airport (MIA) is not involved in the manufacturing of the 787, it serves as a maintenance base for Atlas Air, which operates the Dreamlifter.
Atlas Air is one of the largest freight carriers globally and uses its fleet of 747 series jumbo jets to transport outsized cargo. The company routinely performs maintenance on these aircraft at MIA due to its strategic location and facilities.
The Dreamlifter is known for transporting large aircraft parts, particularly those used in the construction of the 787 Dreamliner. It was converted from a 747-400 passenger plane and can carry significant cargo volumes across long distances. Only four Dreamlifters are currently in service, making them rare sights.