Air Canada’s first 787 Dreamliner during a test flight. Boeing photo.

Air Canada has taken delivery of the first of 37 Boeing 787 Dreamliners ordered by the airline.

The airplane took off this morning from Boeing’s airfield in Everett, Wash., on its delivery flight to Toronto (YYZ) after a handover ceremony attended by senior Air Canada and Boeing executives.

“The 787 Dreamliner will immediately make a dramatic improvement to our fleet capabilities,” said CEO Calin Rovinescu.

“The range and economics unlock new destinations for customers, who will love the innovative look and comfort onboard.”

Air Canada’s first Dreamliner will be used on Haneda (HND) and Tel Aviv  (TLV) routes from July.

“The 787 will enable Air Canada to connect Canada and the world, while improving the flying experience of passengers as well as the company’s bottom line,” said Brad McMullen, vice-president of North America sales at Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

Air Canada’s first 787 features three classes – an International Business Class with 20 seats, a Premium Economy Class with 21 seats and the regular Economy Class with 210 seats.

The airline is organizing a media tour of the airplane at Toronto airport on Tuesday.

Boeing has received orders for 1,031 Dreamliners from operators around the world and delivered 140 so far.