Boeing order 50 planes

BOEING’S board of directors has approved production of the 7E7 Dreamliner with a company-record launch order of 50 planes by All Nippon Airways.

The order is worth $5 billion at list prices, although airlines typically negotiate substantial discounts for large orders.

Dreamliner production is scheduled to begin in 2006. The first flight of the planes billed as a lighter, roomier, more fuel-efficient airliner is anticipated next year and deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2008.