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Boeing has made significant progress in addressing a critical issue with its 777X aircraft, which faced delays due to a thrust link problem discovered in 2024. This problem was identified as a fault in the forward engine-to-strut bolt of the GE9X engines, leading to the grounding of test flights and suspension of engine certification activities. Boeing's resolution involved strengthening the forward engine attach bolt and modifying the surrounding pylon structure.
The issue posed an unacceptable risk under specific flight conditions, affecting all four test aircraft and coinciding with heightened scrutiny from the FAA. Boeing collaborated closely with GE Aerospace to ensure that the fix did not require a major redesign and maintained alignment and stress tolerances.
By December 2024, redesigned components were integrated into the test fleet, followed by rigorous testing in January 2025. "According to Reuters, in mid-January 2025, Boeing resumed flight testing of the 777X after receiving FAA approval for its thrust link modifications." The first post-grounding flight focused on validating the new engine attachment system under various load scenarios.
