Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner begins major assembly

Boeing partner Kawasaki Heavy Industries began installing the circular frames into the midforward section of the fuselage on March 14, a full two weeks ahead of schedule. 

"Beginning major assembly early underscores the commitment, discipline and performance of the entire Boeing and partner team worldwide," said Ken Sanger, vice president of 787 Airplane Development, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We are taking all the right steps to ensure we integrate the 787-10 into the production system smoothly." 

The 787-10, which will undergo final assembly at Boeing South Carolina in North Charleston, with deliveries beginning in 2018. 

To date, the 787-10 has won 153 orders from nine leading customers around the world, accounting for 13 percent of all 787 orders.