Everett, Wash, Boeing (NYSE: BA) and Japan Airlines (JAL) today announced the delivery of the airline's first two 787 Dreamliners. JAL is the first airline to take delivery of a 787 powered by General Electric GEnx engines.

"Today is an important moment in our 60-year relationship with Japan Airlines as we celebrate the deliveries of not one, but two Dreamliners," said Jim Albaugh, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The 787 will provide the fuel-efficient airplane needed to serve Japan Airlines' growing international operations."

"JAL will be the first airline to start new routes that have never been flown before by taking full advantage of the efficiencies of this aircraft, starting with Boston service next month and San Diego later this year," said Yoshiharu Ueki, president of Japan Airlines. "The 787 with GEnx engines has the performance economics that JAL is looking for to ensure route profitability, and also the enhanced in-flight comfort that our customers will be delighted with."

Japan Airlines took possession of the 787 Dreamliner at an event with Japanese Taiko drummers and an airplane unveiling earlier this morning. Guests from Boeing, Japan Airlines and General Electric attended.

"GE is proud that its GEnx-1B engines will power JAL's Boeing's 787 Dreamliner," said Chuck Nugent, vice president and general manager of the GEnx program at GE Aviation. "The GEnx engine combines advanced technology and material to offer improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions and less noise to benefit our operators."

Source: Japan Airlines