Boeing Finally Resumes 777X Flight Testing

After two months in the dark, Boeing has recently resumed test flights with its upcoming 777X. This is essential for the aircraft manufacturer and its plans to certify the plane.

During those two months, Boeing suspended the testing program again because of issues with the GE9X. This followed a failure on a test flight.

Boeing had not completed another 777X flight until now, of course, with the aircraft flying once more and completing routine flights.

The certification process for the 777X has been ongoing for several years. The first test flight took place in January 2020.

One thing that has ultimately hurt the program most has been its consistent delays. Whether central to the airframe itself or, in this most recent case, the GE9X, Boeing has struggled to catch a break.

The aircraft was initially expected to be delivered to customers in 2020. However, the updated timeframe is 2025. This is achievable without further delays to the certification program, which isn’t guaranteed.

Thus far, the program has bought in over 300 orders. However, it has no doubt attracted less immediate interest than most would’ve expected.

Keeping certification on track until 2025 and the global aviation industry’s recovery will be critical, especially for the long haul, which will be the 777X’s bread and butter.

When eventually delivered, the 777X announcement to official launch will span over a decade. Emphasising delays and the state of the sector. However, once both variants are flying, Boeing should see momentum increase as existing 777s retire.

From 2025, the Boeing 777X should play an integral role in Boeing’s widebody offerings to customers worldwide.

It’s just reaching that point, no doubt, that has quickly become quite the challenge, with issues occurring left, right and centre.

Boeing is doing everything in their power to address these problems that have arisen during the testing phase.

Select customers have already openly expressed concern over deadlines, adding pressure to the program.

Airlines have had to adjust retirement and fleet schedules to accommodate such a delayed entry into service.

Maintaining the 2025 delivery will now be crucial for the plane maker to ensure customers stick around and the program doesn’t continue to leak further problems.