At an impressive launch event held today in Seattle, Air New Zealand took delivery of the world's first 787-9 Dreamliner.

The handover took place at Boeing's Everett facility in front of more than 1000 Boeing employees and guests at the aircraft manufacturer's facility in Everett.

The 787-9 painted in a unique black livery is a stretched version of the 787-8 and the first of ten for Air New Zealand. The airline said the airplane will operate the Auckland–Perth route from October 15th 2014 as well as Tokyo and Shanghai in November 2014.

Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Christopher Luxon stated "It's a privilege to be the global launch customer for this aircraft and our team is looking forward to flying it home to New Zealand.  The 787-9 is a real game changer." 

John Wojick, senior vice president of Global Sales and Marketing at Boeing Commercial said "This delivery is a tribute to the hard work and dedication of our employees, suppliers and Air New Zealand. Air New Zealand was a perfect partner for us in developing the 787-9, given its innovative spirit, unique mission requirements and geography. The 787-9, combined with Air New Zealand's exceptional onboard service, will set them apart from the competition by providing an unrivaled flying experience."

The aircraft is scheduled to arrive in Auckland on Friday afternoon local time. 

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