787 Update - Can we fix it? Yes we can... eventually!

(I started typing this - then work got in the way. And Drink).

It seems Boeing has hired Bob the builder to sort a fix to ZA001 - the first flying frame. And the good news is they've found where and how to fix it.

The bad news is it's in the back end of beyond.

As usual, Jon at FlightBlogger at has the full technical breakdown, but to sum up a few points:

• Slippage. Like the A380/A400M programmes, the time lines are lengthening. 6 weeks to 3 months is now the estimate for Airplane 1 (the first production 787).
  
• Desgins are being fiddled with so the stresses don't migrate to different parts of the plane.

Basicly, August will be make or break for the 787 project - to get the fixes in. However, airlines are getting itchy about this delay, and Qatar is most visible with the delays citing the mess that is there, and keeping its threat of cancelling its 787 order - especially if it delivery dates slips beyond 2012 (30 units and options for a further 30).

And whilst this is going on - its good to know these tests are happening, and that they're validating correctly. The fact that its annoying the heck out airlines is besides the point

There's also a viscous rumour going around there may be (dread the thought) a SECOND customer for 747-8I (the passenger version)... and we should look east to the next set of orders....