Program Begins in 1981 With An Order from United Airlines
Design of the 767-200 began in 1978 when an order for 30 767s was announced by United Airlines.
The first 767 -- still owned by Boeing -- was completed and rolled out of the Boeing plant in Everett, Wash., Aug. 4, 1981. First flight was Sept. 26, 1981.
The 767-300 program got under way in September 1983. The first 767-300 was delivered to Japan Airlines in September 1986.
Each of these models was followed by an increased range (extended range, or ER) version, which offers operators even more versatility. This increased range capability, and the 767's uniquely low operating costs are largely responsible for the fragmentation of the North Atlantic markets.
To take advantage of the airplanes' increased ranges and long, over-water flights, new features were added:
- an advanced propulsion system and auxiliary power unit with high-altitude start capability,
- a fourth hydraulic-motor-driven generator,
- increased cargo compartment fire-suppression capability and
- cooling sensors for electronic flight instruments.