Saturday, September 14, 2024 Boeing’s much-anticipated 777X program is facing another potential delay after the discovery of cracks in a crucial engine component on its test planes. This issue, if unresolved, could push back the jet’s planned entry into service next year. In August, the planemaker grounded its 777-9 test fleet after discovering broken thrust links on one of its testbeds.
Further inspections revealed similar cracks in the thrust links of other 777-9 aircraft. One of the grounded planes, WH004, hadn’t been airborne for nearly three years, but investigations confirmed cracks in at least one of the two thrust links on one of its GE9X engines. Boeing emphasized that each engine is designed with two thrust links, providing a measure of redundancy in case one fails.
For instance, one jet, N779XY, had the affected part replaced and has since flown from Hawaii to Seattle, indicating that the issue is being addressed on some planes. The big question remains whether these setbacks will delay the 777-9’s targeted entry into service next year. Boeing has yet to specify how long this component issue could affect the program, simply stating that flight tests will resume “when ready.
” Despite these challenges, Boeing has completed over 1,200 flights and logged more than 3,500 flight hours with its 777-9 testbeds. The company remains hopeful for a first delivery in 2025. However, Emirates, the largest customer of the 777X, remains cautious, with its President, Sir Tim Clark, suggesting that a late 2025 delivery is more realistic, and some industry experts even speculate that 2026 could be the new target.
While these technical hiccups may seem concerning, airlines are still backing the 777X. Boeing has already manufactured over 20 airframes for customer deliveries once the aircraft is certified. Orders from prominent carriers like Qatar Airways and Korean Air reflect continued confidence in the aircraft, which Boeing touts as a revolutionary option for long-haul travel.
Originally, the planemaker had aimed to start delivering the 777X in 2020, but a series of delays have pushed that goal back by at least five years. Even with the current challenges, Boeing believes the 777X will ultimately live up to its game-changing potential for the future of aviation..
