Boeing halts 777X flight tests due to structural damage
Boeing has announced a temporary halt to the flight tests of its 777X aircraft, following the discovery of structural damage. The issue was identified in a custom part located between the engine and airplane structure during routine maintenance. As a precautionary measure, Boeing has grounded all three other 777-9 airplanes in its test fleet. This news comes amidst ongoing delays for the widebody jetliner.
Boeing's response and future plans
In a statement, Boeing confirmed that their team is currently replacing the damaged part and analyzing any insights from the component. The company plans to resume flight testing once this process is completed. The cause of the damage remains unclear. It could be a manufacturing issue, a design flaw, or wear and tear during testing. Boeing has notified both the Federal Aviation Administration and its customers of the issue. The company has received 481 orders for the 777X aircraft.
Potential impact on certification and delivery
The potential impact of this issue on the certification and delivery of the new wide-body jetliners, scheduled for 2025, remains unclear. This development comes as Boeing's leaders, including new CEO Kelly Ortberg, are working to steer the company past a safety crisis that began with a doorplug blowout earlier this year. Addressing this issue transparently and efficiently will be crucial for regaining trust and ensuring the 777X's successful entry into service.
