777X Program Back on Track as Boeing Fixes Engine Thrust Link Issues
Boeing resumes functional verification flights for its 777-9 test fleet, signaling progress in the delayed 777X certification program after addressing thrust link issues and overcoming a seven-week labor strike
The manufacturer Boeing plans to conduct a functional verification flight on the third 777-9 test aircraft, marking the return of the stalled certification program after five months of inactivity caused by the failure of the engine thrust links.
According to Aviation Week, the flight follows the replacement of the thrust link components on the four main test aircraft of the 777X certification program.
The delays caused by the component failure were further exacerbated by a seven-week labor strike in late 2024. As a result, Boeing postponed initial deliveries of the aircraft until 2026.
The third test aircraft, WH003, has not flown since September 8, 2024, when it was ferried back to Seattle from Kona, Hawaii. It was during these flight tests that the failure was first detected.
During the initial test program, WH003 was primarily used to evaluate flight loads, auxiliary power unit performance, avionics, and engines. The 777-9 prototype, WH001, which first flew in January 2020, made its last flight on August 12, 2024.
The second aircraft, WH002, joined the test fleet in April 2020 and focused on automatic landing systems and ground effect tests. Meanwhile, the fourth aircraft, WH004, last flew in November 2021 and featured a production-representative cabin configuration. It is scheduled to complete its testing role with extended twin-engine operations and functionality and reliability testing that simulates real-world airline operations.
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