Thomson Airways celebrates a landmark in aviation history

The aircraft's arrival at the Farnborough Air Show also marks its first maiden voyage outside the USA.Thomson Airways, the airline for Thomson and First Choice holidays, will be the first UK airline to take delivery of the 787 Dreamliner in January 2012 and will be taking a total of eight Dreamliners. A further five Boeing 787 Dreamliners will also be taken by TUI Travel PLC, parent company of Thomson Airways, making thirteen aircraft across the group.

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner will revolutionise air travel for Thomson Airways customers through significant advances in in-flight comfort and wellbeing. The unique composite structure of the 787 means it is at least a fifth more fuel efficient than competitors, creating 20% less emissions and allowing Thomson Airways to fly direct to more exciting far-flung destinations.

Chris Browne, Managing Director of Thomson Airways, comments:

"As the UK's third largest airline, it is a major coup for Thomson Airways to be the UK launch customer for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Thomson Airways is excited about being involved in this great landmark in aviation history and we believe the Dreamliner will transform long-haul travel, opening up a raft of new destinations and making it affordable for everyone. We will be announcing a number of exciting new destinations that we will be offering to our customers - all thanks to this remarkable new aircraft. "

The new Boeing 787 Dreamliner will mean passengers enjoy:

- Reduced symptoms of jetlag - The Dreamliner is fitted with a unique LED lighting system which recreates the sunrise and sunset of the passenger's destination. Passengers are gradually eased into the time zone change which reduces travel fatigue. Higher humidity levels in the cabin, through the use of advanced materials, reduce symptoms of dryness and dehydration which can cause jet leg.

- Reduced travel-related fatigue - Whilst current airliners are pressurized to 8000 ft, the air pressure inside the Dreamliner is equivalent to 6000 ft, allowing 8% more oxygen to be absorbed into the blood meaning passengers experience fewer headaches and less dizziness and fatigue.

- Large windows and controllable light -the windows on the Dreamliner are three times bigger than the average aircraft windows (27×47cm) which will effectively allow every passenger a view of the horizon. Electric dimmers on all windows mean passengers can determine the degree of light they let in.

- Good for nervous fliers/ air sick customers - The Dreamliner's unique system senses air pressure differences and turbulence in advance and then adjusts itself to minimise and iron out any unwelcome side effects. This results in a reduction in motion sickness of up to eight times and a much smoother ride all round.

- More Personal Space - Wider aisles and seats than any other aircraft means passengers can move around more freely.

- Breathe cleaner air - The cleanest atmosphere/air of any commercial aircraft due to the advanced filtration system.

- A quieter ride - due to quieter engines and state-of-the-art aerodynamics

Dr Guy Meadows, sleep and wellbeing expert, commenting on the Dreamliner says:

"Thomson Airways, as the UK launch customer for the revolutionary Boeing 787 Dreamliner, will offer passengers a totally new flying experience, something that they have only ever dreamed of. The aircraft has been specifically designed to address all the issues that have made flying a challenge for the body - such as reduced oxygen content, altered cabin pressure, humidity, dehydration, confined space, noise and air quality - creating an ideal environment that optimises passengers wellbeing. Thomson Airways customers will really notice the difference with this aircraft and will arrive at their destination feeling more refreshed and ready to enjoy their break."