Boeing halts B777-9 certification-flights

Boeing is experiencing another setback as it has decided to halt its certification-flights of the B777-9. The manufacturer made this decision as it has "identified a component that did not performed as designed".

According to other outlets, the component is a so-called "thrust link", a feature that is part of the attachment of the engine to the wing. There are two thrust links on each engine, and one of them on B777-9 N779XY (65799) was found the be sheared-off during scheduled maintenance at Kona (HI). After finding this, inspection of the other two B777-9 prototypes found cracks as well, resulting in the decision to halt flights.

Earlier in July 2024, Boeing received the green light from the FAA to start final certification flights with the B777-9. During these flights, FAA staff is on board to monitor the progress.

Boeing has said in a statement that it will now "replace the component and capture any learnings and resume flight testing when ready". Despite the latest setback, the manufacturer is confident it will still be able to deliver the first B777-9 to customers late next year.

Originally, the B777-9 was scheduled to enter service in 2020.

Photo by Boeing.