The FAA grounded the Boeing 787 Dreamliner Jan. 16 when two of its lithium-ion batteries failed in short succession. But you’d never know there’d been a problem from this video of former F-18 fighter jet pilot Mike Bryan taking the Dreamliner for a spin at last year’s Farnborough International Air Show. Bryan not only performs a steep combat takeoff, but also completes a tailwind landing—both moves rarely seen in big jets.

There’s also good news on the horizon for the Dreamliner. Boeing conducted a test flight April 5 for its first and final certification for the new battery system. According to Boeing CEO Jim McNerney FAA approval received on that day “is a critical and welcome milestone toward getting the fleet flying again.” The FAA could authorize the new batteries as early as mid-April, and United Airlines has the 787 back on its time schedule starting May 31. Qatar is even more optimistic, scheduling its fleet of 787s beginning May 15.

Samantha Lile

Samantha Lile is a 2002 Missouri State University graduate of journalism and mass media. She has served as a reporter and editor for various newspapers throughout her journalism career. She made the leap into writing full-time after working for a major financial institution since 2000.

Because of her banking background, Samantha is knowledgeable in finance reporting, but is also strong in commentaries, personal profiles, youth studies, horticulture, history and entertainment-related works.

Samantha lives in Ozark, Mo. with her husband of nine years, four dogs and two cats.

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