ORLANDO -- Imagine a Boeing 787 Dreamliner outfitted as a luxurious flying home that can sleep 32 in lie-flat seats or beds. "Clients should enjoy flying in it so much they don't want to get out upon landing," said designer Andrew Winch, who specializes in creating interiors for yachts and Boeing jets. When he refers to "docking in their private terminal," which is secure and relaxing, he's referring to clients who stay in their VIP aircraft for a bit after landing because they're so comfortable.
Andrew Winch Designs and Lufthansa Technik unveiled a VIP completion concept for the 787 this afternoon that exudes the "wow factor." It contains a forward lounge that includes an informal conversation area, a place where passengers can relax. Two guest cabins follow, and then a formal dining room and conference room. The 787 even has a movie theater with a 72-inch flat screen and a wet bar with circular stools. The rear is a huge master stateroom with its own king-size bed, sitting room, full bath (including a clear glass shower and two vanities), wardrobe and storage. The contemporary interior's sleek design really looks more like a masterfully designed penthouse.
August Henningsen, Lufthansa Technik chairman, said LHT and Andrew Winch Designs developed the 787 now because of the long lead times needed to get a 787 slot, and so customers can visualize what can be done with a Dreamliner interior. Henningsen said it would take a year to complete a 787 as shown today.
Steven Hill, CEO of Boeing Business Jets, attended LHT's press conference and said the first available delivery slot for a 787 today is in 2013 because Boeing already has sold the first 455 Dreamliners.
So, clients who want a 787 outfitted in a VIP configuration need to buy one now to receive it in 2014.
-- By Lee Ann Tegtmeier
Boeing is pushing Air India 787 in local newspapers. Building awareness is part of a campaign to gain large share of booming India/China market.
Posted by: mumbaiKar | February 07, 2007 at 08:21 PM