Boeing starts crucial flight tests for delayed 777X certification

While Boeing has been preparing for FAA's flying exam, it remains uncertain if the plane will be ready for delivery by next year as anticipated by executives. The FAA refrained from commenting on the certification process but emphasized that “safety always drives the timeline.” The agency noted that such comprehensive processes generally require many months.

The progress was initially reported by Air Current and provides rare positive news for Boeing, which has received approximately 480 orders for the 777-9 and two other models: the smaller 777-8 passenger jet and a freighter version. These aircraft are notable for being the largest twin-engine planes ever built, featuring wings with tips that hinge upward to navigate airport gates.

Since January 2020, Boeing pilots have accumulated over 3,500 flight hours across more than 1,200 test flights to assess various safety and operational aspects of the aircraft. Four dedicated planes are involved in testing elements like stability, control, and cabin noise.

Developed as an efficient successor to Boeing’s four-engine 747 jumbo jetliner and Airbus SE’s A380, the 777X has been under development for over ten years and was initially expected to enter service in 2020. Delays have frustrated airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Deutsche Lufthansa AG, compelling them to continue using older jets they intended to replace.

The upgraded wide-body aircraft faced intensified regulatory scrutiny following two fatal crashes involving Boeing's 737 Max jets in 2018 and 2019 that resulted in 346 deaths combined. In response, both FAA and European regulators required extensive testing and redesigns of several components of the 777X including its avionics system and actuator-control electronics.

Additionally, commercial entry of two final Max models has been postponed as FAA demanded revisions to engineering studies and redesigns of an engine deicing system susceptible to failure under certain conditions.

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(With assistance from Danny Lee, Siddharth Philip and Allyson Versprille.)

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