Boeing Resumed 777X Test Flights After Five-Month Delays

Boeing has successfully resumed test flights for its highly anticipated 777X aircraft after a five-month suspension. The delay was caused by a thrust link issue discovered during routine maintenance checks.

Thrust Link Problem Discovered Across Test Aircraft

The issue was first identified on a 777-9 test aircraft following a routine flight. Further inspections revealed the same problem on two other test planes. In an August 19, 2024 statement, Boeing addressed the situation, stating:

“During scheduled maintenance, we identified a component that did not perform as designed. Our team is replacing the part and capturing any learnings from the component and will resume flight testing when ready.”

Boeing 777X Test Flights Resume After Thorough Fixes

With the problem now resolved, a Boeing 777-9, registered N779XY, took to the skies from Seattle Boeing Field (BFI) on January 16, 2025. The aircraft performed a two-and-a-half-hour test flight, marking a significant milestone in the program’s progress. Following the flight, Boeing reiterated its commitment to safety and performance, commenting to Reuters:

“We continue to execute a rigorous test program to demonstrate the safety, performance, and reliability of the 777-9.”

Delays and Strikes Impact Program Timeline

The five-month pause in 777X test flights was compounded by a seven-week staff strike, which concluded at the end of 2024. This prolonged delay is the latest in a series of setbacks for the 777X program, which originally aimed for an entry into service in 2020. The timeline has since shifted, with the earliest possible entry now projected for 2026.

Certification Trials and Orders for the 777X

The certification flight trials for the 777-9 began in July 2024, just months before the project faced delays. Boeing currently has 481 orders for the 777X family, which includes the larger 777-9 and the smaller 777-8 variants. Qatar Airways is poised to be the launch customer for this next-generation aircraft.

• Featured image by: Manuel Negrerie

Youssef Yahya

Youssef Yahya is the CEO and Founder of Aviation for Aviators, a platform dedicated to the aviation industry. With over 3 years of experience as an aviation writer, Youssef is passionate about sharing his insights on aviation, entrepreneurship, and the broader business landscape. As a Teaching Assistant in Entrepreneurship at Nile University, he also nurtures the next generation of entrepreneurs. When he’s not exploring the skies or business ventures, you can find him saying, ‘Drag your coffee, and let’s talk aviation, entrepreneurship, and football.’

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