OREANDA-NEWS. Vancouver International Airport (YVR) today welcomed the future of air travel with the touchdown of Japan Airlines' (JAL) Boeing 787 - the first Dreamliner to land in British Columbia as part of a regularly scheduled service.

JAL's inaugural flight from Tokyo's Narita Airport (NRT) brought to B.C. 186 passengers, who experienced state-of-the art amenities including spacious surroundings, mood lighting, extra-large windows equipped with an electronic dimming system and lower air pressure to reduce fatigue and jet lag.

“The Dreamliner is truly a game-changing aircraft, not only for its incredible passenger experience but also for the increased efficiencies it offers to airlines,” said Craig Richmond, President and CEO, Vancouver Airport Authority. “We're thrilled to celebrate the exciting arrival of this revolutionary aircraft alongside our long-time business partner, Japan Airlines.”

The Dreamliner is touted as the most fuel-efficient aircraft in the world and the first to use primarily composite materials in the construction of its airframe.

“Japan Airlines is pleased to be the first airline to introduce the Dreamliner to the Vancouver market,” said Takayuki Kobayashi, Vice President of Canada, Japan Airlines. “Our 787s are configured with 144 economy and 42 business-class seats, which we believe will well serve the growing business traffic between British Columbia and Japan.”

JAL will introduce the B787-8 series on its existing daily YVR-NRT route using a phased approach, beginning with one weekly flight and extending to its daily service from March 30, 2014. (Schedule is subject to change and government approval.)

“By bringing the Dreamliner to YVR, Japan Airlines reinforces the importance of the Tokyo to Vancouver route as a key connector for business, trade and tourism travellers,” said The Honourable Naomi Yamamoto, Minister of State for Tourism and Small Business. “Creating opportunities for fast, convenient travel between these two cities can also increase the flow of trade and investment, leading to more economic and tourism activity for British Columbia.”