As it begins function and reliability (F&R) and extended operations testing on 787, Boeing will have a two-phase implementation of its extended operations certification, with 180min operations certified at entry into service with All Nippon Airways in August or September and a further 330min certification following a required "software adjustment" due to a US Federal Aviation Administration rule change.
Boeing says it will have 330min ETOPS certification ready in time for the first customer requirement.
UPDATE: The airframer says new regulatory guidance concerning "low fuel alerting that requires an alerting system software change for operations greater than 180 minutes. That software will be available in early 2012."
UPDATE 6:32 PM ET: At first glance, it appears the early 2012 customer requiring 330min ETOPS is United, which is deploying its first 787 on the Houston-Auckland route.
Here's my full story, which doesn't have the updates, but will soon.
This is a breaking story and will be updated.
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