Boeing begins final assembly of fifth Dreamliner

Boeing has begun final assembly in Everett of the fifth 787 Dreamliner, which will be the third flight-test airplane.

Two ground-test airplanes that will never fly are also under assembly. The static test airframe moved from the assembly line April 25 into a test rig in another assembly bay, allowing the planes behind it — the fatigue test airplane and the second flight-test airplane — to move forward one position.

After assembly is complete, the fifth 787 will be fitted with an interior and become the first Dreamliner to be configured much as the jet will look like upon delivery to airlines.

Meanwhile, Boeing said, Dreamliner number 1 is on track to have its electrical systems turned on in June, with an expected first flight around October.

Boeing also said that Jack Jones, who formerly directed pre-flight operations and delivery of all airplanes rolled out in Everett, is now vice president in charge of 787 Final Assembly, replacing Steve Westby, who retired from Boeing Wednesday after a 31-year career.