Ray Conner, the head of Boeing's commercial airplanes unit, said Friday that Boeing is convinced of the aircraft's safety and that the airlines that have bought the plane are also confident in its safety.

"These planes are safe," he said. "We welcome any opportunity to further assure people outside the industry."

One passenger said Friday he would avoid flying on a 787 for the time being.

"I am wary of a plane model that has fire problems and leaks fuel," said Atlanta-based businessman Bobby Burns, a project manager who takes more than 50 trips a year. "I think of it the same as a new car model: Wait a year or two to get all the 'recalls' sorted out."