21.   Boeing has a lot riding on the jet, its first new commercial aircraft in more than a decade.

22.   Boeing will start delivering the new aircraft next year.

23.   A sale of new aircraft would also include the purchase of spare parts, support equipment, and special services from Lockheed Martin.

24.   After five years of losing billions of dollars, airlines are returning to profitability and eventually will begin buying new aircraft again, the Airbus forecast said.

25.   After the flight, Coffman said Lockheed Martin may explore new international aircraft alliances in the wake of its failed merger attempt with Northrop Grumman.

26.   Airbus has created a new large aircraft division, said spokeswoman Sandy Smith.

27.   Airlines have been pressing for lower-paid pilots at their commuter affiliates to fly the new aircraft instead of the higher-paid union members.

28.   Airlines have since cut flights and laid off workers, and demand for new aircraft is expected to decline.

29.   All new aircraft will be equipped with enhanced ground proximity warning systems, which give pilots earlier and more detailed warning about local terrain.

30.   But all across McChord, the men and women who will fly and maintain the new aircraft have not waited for the official ceremony to begin their transition.