If you looked at my questions properly they are in no way similar. But secondly yes I'll wait till Qantas make another official announcement.

Ken, I would of thought that it would only be programming, like load and balance, V1,V2...

Based on that can a 788 sim be upgraded to a 789 by a software change ?

Yep, generally the same sims with just a few 'buttons' in the back to change the config from -8 to -9.

Ha! as if there's any doubt where they'll be based. Syd based, Mel for maint.

And the 787 sims are have just subtle differences, the -9 has more flap settings than -8 for instance.

Next Generation Fleet:
(http://www.qantasnewsroom.com.au/med...s-ceo-address/)

There’s also a huge amount of preparation underway for the arrival of the Qantas 787 next year.

Our first aircraft is still about 15 months away, but I’m delighted to say that Dreamliner flights on our existing network will be on sale before Christmas.

And shortly after that, we’ll be announcing other international destinations that this state-of-the- art aircraft will fly to.

The Dreamliner doesn’t just extend our range – it also changes what’s possible for our customers.

The aircraft is full of inbuilt features to keep you comfortable on a long flight – like better air quality, less noise and more natural light.

We want to take this to the next level. And so we’re working with a range of specialists to create the best Dreamliner experience on the market – from a team of world-leading designers, including Marc Newson, to university sleep experts.

We’ll have a lot more to say between now and the first aircraft arriving – but customers should expect the best in class on every part of the Qantas Dreamliner.

Luxury suites in business class.

Economy seats with more room and better entertainment options.

And a revolutionary premium economy that is streets ahead of anything else out there.

Qantas first 787 details and estimated delivery date:

Line Number: 615
Variable Number: ZB269
Assembled: Everett
Delivery: 27th September 2017

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets...19&output=html

ANA took delivery of it's 50th B787 on 18 August, 2016

QF still has to wait for nearly 13 mths

I believe BNE will do the maintenance .

Just seven frames before the first -10.

Hopefully still on topic, does anyone know if the paint scheme for the 789s has been finalised?

The big model given to Qantas by Boeing earlier this year had no flying kangaroo on the engine nacelles and no red 'winglets' painted on the wingtips (ala Virgin Atlantic's 789s).

In my humble opinion, with white wings, nacelles, and a mostly white fuselage, the 789s could arguably look a bit plain...