The Boeing 787 Dreamliner brought a new generation of cockpit design to Boeing’s long-haul fleet — big, clean displays, head-up guidance and a flight deck built for efficiency and situational awareness. Here is what sits in front of a 787 crew, and why pilots rate it so highly.
Dreamliner cockpit philosophy
The 787 deck blends Boeing’s traditional, pilot-directed philosophy with modern glass. It keeps the familiar control yoke while modernising almost everything around it — a deliberate balance of the familiar and the new.
The big glass displays
The most striking feature is the array of large multifunction displays showing the primary flight display (PFD), navigation display (ND) and engine information (EICAS). The generous screen real estate lets crews display maps, systems and information clearly, reducing workload on long flights.
Head-up displays
The 787 offers dual head-up displays (HUDs) that project key flight information into the pilot’s forward view. HUDs improve awareness during approach and landing by keeping eyes outside while still seeing speed, attitude and guidance.
Boeing's yoke philosophy
Unlike Airbus side-sticks, the 787 keeps a conventional control column. Boeing’s approach keeps the pilot directly connected to the control inputs, with feedback through the yoke — a philosophy crews coming from other Boeing types know well.
What pilots make of it
Pilots generally love the 787 flight deck — spacious, quiet, well laid out and comfortable on ultra-long sectors. The combination of big displays, HUDs and refined systems makes long days more manageable. If the Dreamliner is your favourite, browse our Boeing 787 gifts and aircraft models.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Boeing 787 have a yoke or sidestick?
The 787 uses a conventional control yoke, in line with Boeing’s pilot-directed design philosophy.
Does the 787 have a head-up display?
Yes — the 787 offers dual head-up displays that project flight information into the pilots’ forward view.
Why do pilots like the 787 cockpit?
Large, clear displays, HUDs, a quiet and spacious deck, and refined systems make it comfortable and low-workload on long flights.
Explore more: Boeing 787 Gifts · Aircraft Models · Pilot Gifts
Comments
Loading comments…