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The Boeing 787 Dreamliner has become the best-selling widebody passenger aircraft in aviation history, surpassing 2,000 orders from nearly 90 customers since its first delivery to All Nippon Airways on September 25, 2011. The aircraft has carried over a billion passengers and completed almost five million flights in less than 14 years.
Boeing's strategy with the Dreamliner focused on creating a mid-sized widebody jet that could fly farther and more efficiently than previous models. This approach resulted in significant fuel savings—estimated at around 20–25% compared to older widebodies—and allowed airlines to operate new nonstop routes that were previously considered uneconomical. Airlines such as Qantas and United Airlines have used the 787 to launch direct services like Perth–London and Denver–Tokyo, contributing to a shift toward point-to-point long-haul travel.
Despite early development challenges, including delays and technical issues, the Dreamliner established itself as a reliable option for international carriers. Its widespread adoption has led airlines worldwide to rethink their network strategies, reducing reliance on traditional hub-and-spoke models.
