United Continental Holdings Inc. (UAL) is taking pride to be the first in US to fly a Dreamliner. Claiming the airplanes as the best till date, its CEO, Jeff Smisek told the passengers on the debut flight of United's 787 that UAL will be world's leading airline. The first flight of the composite plastic jet went from Houston to Chicago.

The plane is considered 20% more efficient than other planes of similar size. In addition, the country will save 30% of the maintenance costs. The engine in the plane makes negligible noise unlike the other planes.

Boeing, in collaboration with federal authorities, will make broadband internet available inside the aircraft. The project is expected to be completed by 2014. Continental airlines have also bought the airplane and 60 pre-merger Continental pilots have been trained specially to fly the aircraft.

"This is a very exciting day for United Airlines, a day we've waited a long time for, and we are delighted to have the 787 here", said Mr. Smisek on Sunday, in a celebration that followed first flight of the Dreamliner.

UAL has received its second aircraft of the kind last week and is expected to fly in coming days. It will get total of five such airplanes by year's end.