Spirit AeroSystems unveiled its first developmental nose section of the Boeing 787 airplane. Using the lastest in advanced-composite materials, the nose structure measures 19 feet in diameter and 24 feet long. Spirit AeroSystems, in Kansas and Oklahoma, has the design and build responsibilities for the forward section, pylons, and fixed and moveable wing components for the 787 airplane.
“Today is a historic day for Spirit AeroSystems,” Jeff Turner, President and CEO of Spirit AeroSystems, told a gathering of hundreds of employees, airplane partners and media at an on-site roll out ceremony.“The 41 Section on display here today is the first major piece of airplane hardware completed by Spirit AeroSystems. It also is a marvel of modern technology and an example of industry-leading teamwork and innovation on behalf of the employees of Spirit AeroSystems and our entire supply chain. Because of the knowledge and skills of our excellent team, I am confident many more modern marvels will follow.”
A 787 production forward section is expected to be produced in Wichita next year, complete with flight deck and systems installations. It will ship in 2007 by a special, modified 747 cargo airplane to The Boeing Company’s plant in Everett, Wash., for final assembly.
