After long delay, 787 Dreamliner flights resume
United Airlines Flight 1, from Houston to Chicago, marks the first flight of Boeing's advanced jet since the FAA grounded the plane in January.
Five months later, Boeing's 787 Dreamliner is once again aloft.
United Flight 1 took off from Houston Monday morning en route to Chicago. It marked the first flight of Boeing's next-generation airliner since the entire worldwide fleet of Dreamliners was grounded by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration in January in the wake of multiple on-board fires.
The fires were found to be related to the plane's batteries, and in the months since then, Boeing and its suppliers have worked to correct the problems. Last month, the FAA approved Boeing's proposed fix to the battery issues, which included a new charging system and a new enclosure, and the aviation giant began installation on planes around the world.
The Dreamliner has been plagued by delays and other problems since long before its first flight in 2009. But because of its highly-advanced, fuel-efficient composite design, the plane has remained a favorite of aviation enthusiasts and airlines hoping to capitalize on the savings it promises.
United confirmed today's flight. Boeing did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Stay tuned for more on the Dreamliner's resumption of flight.