The worldwide grounding of Boeing Co.'s new 787 Dreamliner has overshadowed the business strategies of the airlines who rushed to introduce the problem-hit jet ahead of their rivals, as well as the Japanese companies supplying parts for it.
The 787, which uses cutting-edge electronic instruments in place of conventional equipment found in older aircraft, has set a new benchmark for fuel efficiency, raising hopes for increased profitability despite soaring fuel costs.
On Friday, however, Boeing said it would not deliver any more 787s until the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration approves measures to address safety concerns generated by the lithium-ion batteries the plane uses. The aircraft has also experienced fuel leaks.