Boeing Dreamliner makes U.S. debut Sunday morning

By the CNN Wire Staff

November 3, 2012 -- Updated 2301 GMT (0701 HKT)

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

United will be the first airline to fly the 787 in the United States
The advanced aircraft has weathered production delays
It's made of lighter material and will reduce fuel costs
Passengers will enjoy bigger windows and more bin space

(CNN) -- The celebratory champagne should be well-chilled by now.

After years of manufacturing delays and cost overruns, the state-of-the-art Boeing 787 Dreamliner makes its North American debut Sunday morning, toting more than 200 eager United Airlines passengers from Houston to Chicago.

It promises to be a morning full of festivities, starting with a ribbon-cutting before the plane departs Bush Intercontinental Airport at 7:20 a.m. The aircraft touches down two and a half hours later at O'Hare International Airport, greeted by a water cannon salute.

United says the 787 -- the airline has ordered 50 -- will "revolutionize the flying experience for our customers and crew while delivering unprecedented operating efficiency, comfort and lower emissions."

The Dreamliner saves airlines money on fuel because its body is made from lightweight composite materials. It features passenger comforts such as bigger windows, larger overhead bins and better ventilation.

U.S. routes announced for 'sports car in the sky'