Introducing the new Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner airplane, touted as the next generation mid-sized aircraft that can fly the long haul international routes, like the big jets, all while using 20 percent less fuel.

In addition, the aircraft is expected to travel at speeds similar to today’s fastest jetliners like the 777, 767 and 757. That fuel efficiency and speed is due in part to the composite materials used in 50 percent of the primary structure – including the fuselage and wings.

The 787 also provides a more comfortable interior environment and higher humidity levels to increase passenger comfort.

The new lighter aircraft also has some significant environmental advantages, according to the Houston Airport System’s chief operating officer (HAS),Tom Bartlett.

“It’s leveraging new technology and one important thing concerns the engines,” he says. “Environmentally they’ll be much, much quieter and that’s a huge benefit for us and any other airports.”

Boeing is scheduled to make three versions of the Dreamliner, including the 787-8, which was rolled out with much fanfare in early July.

The aircraft seats between 210 and 250 passengers on routes of 7,650 to 8,200 nautical miles – half a world away from Houston.

It has a Mach speed of 0.85, twin-aisle configuration, sports a wingspan of 197 feet and is 186 feet long.

Dozens of customers from six continents have placed orders for a total of 677 of these aircraft. That is $110 billion worth of purchases, making this the most successful launch of a new commercial airplane in Boeing’s history, according to company officials.

“Our journey began some six years ago when we knew we were on the cusp of delivering valuable technologies that would make an economic difference to our airline customers,” says Mike Blair, vice president and general manager of the 787 program for Boeing. “In our business that happens every 15 or so years, so we have to get it right.”

Houston-based Continental Airlines is a believer.