Boeing’s 777X Crisis Worsens: Test Fleet Grounded After Cracks Found
Hello World
Boeing’s next generation widebody – the 777X, with several size variants – faces new challenges today. It’s years behind schedule, and the airframe manufacturer’s test fleet has just been grounded.
As first reported by The Air Current, a Boeing 777-9 test plane operated a Kona flight on Friday. When inspected after the flight, Beoing found “cracks in the thrust link structure.” Furthermore, there’s also been an issue with the mounting of the engine to the plane on Boeing’s other two test 777-9s.
Each engine has two thrust links which “transfer thrust loads from the negine to the aft lower engine mount.” If one fails, they’re designed so that the engine will still be carried by the structure.
The design of the 777X thrust link is not common with other aircraft currently in operation. The plane’s engines are larger and heavier than those on existing Boeing aircraft.
The massive Boeing 777X! pic.twitter.com/6W2UN3ZpE8
— Jeff Dumps (@elektronenjager) July 29, 2024
Over 500 planes have been ordered, with first delivery most recently expected in 2026. At least 403 777-9 orders have been reported, along with 43 -8s and 55 -8 freighters. The largest order came from Emirates. Qatar Airways, Cathay Pacific, ANA, Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa and Korean Air are all reported large customers. No U.S. airline has ordered one.
Emirates reveals SkyLounge, the most exclusive Onboard Lounge to be introduced on its Boeing 777X fleet from 2020. A completely transparent lounge with unmatched aerial views and unparalleled luxury, Emirates SkyLounge promises window views like no other. pic.twitter.com/pwtoocM9mN
— Emirates (@emirates) March 31, 2018
It’s unclear how a pause in testing will affect this schedule – that will be determined by any findings. The plane’s first test flight was four years ago.
The first Boeing #777X is in flight. After a few hours of flying, the jet will land at Boeing Field in Seattle, Washington.
Track the flight here: https://t.co/ekfjglCcb7 pic.twitter.com/XRTetREL4M
— Boeing Airplanes (@BoeingAirplanes) January 25, 2020