Virgin Atlantic Airways became the first European carrier to take delivery of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. Named Birthday Girl to celebrate the airline’s 30^th anniversary, the airplane is the first of 16 787-9s Virgin Atlantic ordered from Boeing. Stretching more 20 feet longer than the 787-8, the 787-9 flies up to 40 more passengers and includes passenger-pleasing features such as large windows, large stow bins, modern LED lighting, higher humidity, a lower cabin altitude, cleaner air and a smoother ride. The aircraft will initially operate service between London Heathrow Airport and Boston Logan International Airport.

“The first 787-9 in Europe will be a flagship for Virgin Atlantic’s fleet, providing greatly improved efficiencies across its routes,” said Todd Nelp, vice president of European sales, Boeing. “The airplane, with its unique on-board features, will provide an unrivalled passenger experience, cementing Virgin Atlantic’s reputation as a true innovator in air travel.”