Boeing reports 1Q earnings, but what's the difference between 'first' and 'initial'?

The 787 program continued flight testing during the quarter, as an additional two airplanes joined the two airplanes already in the flight test program.  The Dreamliner completed key flight test milestones such as flutter, stall and ground-effect tests.  On March 28, the static test unit successfully completed the ultimate load test with a fully pressurized cabin. First delivery is expected in the fourth quarter of 2010.  Total firm orders for the 787 at quarter-end were 866 airplanes from 57 customers.

 

The 747-8 program began its flight test program during the quarter, completed initial airworthiness testing, and ended the quarter with three airplanes in the flight test program. Initial delivery is expected in the fourth quarter of 2010.