Boeing halted flight testing of its new 777X wide-body jet after identifying a failure in a part connecting the engine to the aircraft’s body, the manufacturer revealed. The US aerospace company noted that the issue was discovered during scheduled maintenance. The team is replacing the faulty component and gathering insights to resume flight testing once ready.
Boeing has faced increasing scrutiny over safety and quality control, especially following a near-catastrophic incident involving an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 MAX in January. The 777X wide-body program, introduced in November 2013, expands Boeing’s popular 777 family. The new twin-aisle aircraft is set to be the world’s largest twin-engine jet. Over 500 units have been ordered but are not yet in commercial service.
The problematic part, unique to the 777-9 model, connects the engine to the aircraft’s structure. Boeing stated that the other 777-9s used for testing are currently under inspection. The 777X series includes three models: the 777-8, the 777-9, and the 777-8 cargo.
Reported by @theaircurrent, Boeing has halted flight tests of its B777X fleet after it discovered cracks in a primary Pylon structural component that mounts the largest General Electric GE9X Turbofan engines to the plane’s wings, during a post flight inspection.
Worth noting,… pic.twitter.com/dQIc7RRHNg
— FL360aero (@fl360aero) August 20, 2024
Initially scheduled for service in 2020, the aircraft’s entry has been delayed to 2025 due to certification issues. Despite not yet receiving approval from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Boeing reached a significant milestone in July. Following numerous test flights, they obtained permission to test the 777-9 with FAA representatives on board.
Other Perspective
- KULR8 reports that Boeing has suspended flight tests for its 777X aircraft due to a part failure, adding to the plane’s troubled development history.(read more)
- The National News reports that Boeing has paused flight tests of the 777X after an engine mounting structure failure was detected.(read more)
- The Air Current reports that Boeing has grounded its 777X test fleet after a routine post-flight inspection revealed a critical failure in the engine mounting structure, a major setback for the aircraft’s development.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why did Boeing suspend flight testing of the 777X?
Boeing suspended 777X flight testing due to a failed part connecting the engine to the aircraft body.
What component failed on the Boeing 777X?
The failed component is custom to the 777-9 model and connects the engine to the aircraft structure.
When is the Boeing 777X expected to enter commercial service?
The Boeing 777X is now expected to enter commercial service in 2025.
How many Boeing 777X aircraft have been ordered so far?
More than 500 Boeing 777X aircraft have been ordered.
What models will the new Boeing 777X be available in?
The Boeing 777X will be available in three models: 777-8, 777-9, and 777-8 cargo.