For most people, April 17 was memorable if only because that was the deadline for filing their federal income tax returns. But in D.C. we’ll remember April 17, 2012 as the day we saw the Space Shuttle Discovery.

Boeing brought its next-generation commercial airliner to Reagan National Airport this week, showing it off as part of its worldwide 2011-2012 “Dream Tour.” Groups of VIPs and journalists were invited to tour what Boeing officials tout as the 21st century’s first new plane, a sleek and environmentally friendly vehicle that will redefine air travel for both airlines and passengers.