Boeing began developing its 787 Dreamliner in the wake of the September 11 attacks.

The first was unveiled in July 2007 and was to enter service in May 2008, but suffered production delays. The first passenger flights began in October 2011 with Japanese airline All Nippon.

Its first year of service was blighted by problems, including an electrical fire on a landed Japan Airlines 787 at Boston's Logan International Airport.

In January this year, a flight to Tokyo was forced to make an emergency landing following a battery problem. An inspection revealed a fire in the battery compartment.

As of January 17, all 50 Dreamliners worldwide have been grounded and Boeing has halted 787 deliveries until the battery issue is resolved.