Boeing has redesigned the engine thrust links for its 777X aircraft, a move aimed at addressing previous fatigue issues in the load-bearing components. The redesign comes after a four-month delay in certification testing due to these problems. Boeing plans to install the new thrust links later this summer.
In August 2024, Boeing grounded its 777X test fleet after discovering broken thrust links on one of the test planes. Similar cracks were found on other aircraft, halting all four test planes in the program. The company resumed certification flights in January 2025 and now plans broader design improvements for the 777X.
Originally slated for certification in 2020, the Boeing 777X has faced several delays due to technical challenges during testing. A significant setback occurred in 2020 with an "uncommanded pitch event," causing unexpected nose rise without pilot input. Further delays followed due to thrust link failures discovered during flight testing and a labor strike.