In addition to bringing big-jet ranges to mid-size airplanes, the 787 Dreamliner provides airlines with unmatched fuel efficiency, resulting in exceptional environmental performance. The airplane uses 20 percent less fuel for comparable missions than today's similarly sized airplane. It will travels at speeds similar to today's fastest wide bodies, Mach 0.85.

Boeing has selected General Electric and Rolls-Royce to develop engines for the new airplane. Advances in engine technology contribute as much as 8 percent of the increased efficiency of the new airplane, representing a nearly two-generation jump in technology for the middle of the market.