First a question. Can anyone confirm if the current QR 787s include separate crew rest bunks? Someone on this forum suggested earlier that was not the case - and that could obviously impact how the 787 is used in terms of routes, flight times, etc.
Seems that at this point, the QR 787s are assigned to Indian, Gulf and Western Europe routes. Scandi, UK (including EDI added this summer), BRU, FRA, MUC, ZRH so far with more Euro destinations likely coming... So, if you are looking to fly worldwide including North & South America and Asia, the 777 (both the pax and freighter versions) would be the better choice if you actually had the choice to make. If you don't want the jet lag and would prefer shorter flights, perhaps the 787 is preferable. Again, applicants may not get a choice. That said, with a minimum of 30 787s on order, who knows where future orders will be placed and whether they will fly further afield.... I imagine that if you are from Western Europe and you want to beat the blazing Doha heat in the summer, some time visiting family and friends in cooler Scandi or Scotland on layovers would be welcome and the 787 might fit better given the current route structure (subject to change)... Obviously many variables and preferences to consider. Personally, either choice would be great in my opinion.
It will be interesting to see how the upcoming A350 (80+ firm orders!) is integrated into the long-haul route planning.
Last edited by Iver; 26th Jan 2014 at 16:48.