Boeing Selects Saab Aerostructures for 787 Cargo Door Package

EVERETT, Wash., Oct. 17, 2005 -- Boeing and Saab Aerostructures of Sweden announced today the signing of a contract for the design and manufacture of the large cargo doors, bulk cargo doors and access doors for the new Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Saab Aerostructures will build the doors at its base in Linkoping, Sweden.

Saab will provide three door types, totaling seven doors per airplane. The doors will be made of advanced lightweight carbon-fiber composites.

"We chose Saab Aerostructures for its excellent track record in precision design and manufacturing," said Mike Bair, vice president and general manager of the Boeing 787 program. "Its capabilities in composite aerospace parts were a key factor in our selection. We are thrilled to name Saab as a 787 partner."

"We are proud of the confidence Boeing has shown by selecting Saab Aerostructures for these important work packages, and we are happy to join the 787 partner team. We have a strong confidence in this program and in Boeing's commitment to continue to develop high-quality, innovative aircraft that meet the needs of airlines and passengers," said Pontus Kallen, senior vice president and general manager for Saab Aerostructures. "We are thrilled to be part of Boeing's commitment to innovation and quality."

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  Boeing 787 Dreamliner

The 787 is a family of three super-efficient airplanes that will provide passengers with a better flying experience, including an improved cabin environment with more room and more conveniences. The 787-8 will carry 223 passengers in three classes of seating with a range of up to 8,500 nautical miles (15,700 kilometers). The 787-3, a model of the 787-8 optimized for shorter flights, will carry 296 passengers in two-class seating on ranges up to 3,500 nautical miles (6,500 kilometers). The 787-9, a longer version of the 787-8, will carry 259 passengers in three classes with a range of 8,300 nautical miles (15,400 kilometers).

Launched in April 2004, the airplane has gained 173 firm orders and commitments from 23 customers.

Saab Aerostructures

Saab is one of the world's leading high-technology companies, with its main operations focusing on defense, aviation and space. The group covers a broad spectrum of competence and capabilities in systems integration.