Boeing starts third phase of 777X certification tests, with first delivery now pushed to 2027 and over $15 billion in charges from program delays.
WASHINGTON: Boeing has received approval from US aviation regulators to begin the third of five major certification phases for its 777-9 wide-body jet.
The Air Current reported the Federal Aviation Administration granted approval last week for what will be the largest single round of evaluations for the long-delayed aircraft program.
This development marks significant progress for Boeing’s critical 777X program, though Reuters could not immediately verify the report.
Neither Boeing nor the FAA responded immediately to requests for comment about the certification milestone.
The 777X represents the cornerstone of Boeing’s long-term wide-body strategy, previously dominated by its 747 and 777 models.
Repeated certification and production delays have postponed deliveries by several years, resulting in more than $15 billion in charges.
These financial impacts have added substantial pressure to Boeing’s already strained finances.
The extended delays have created opportunities for rival Airbus and its competing A350 model as international travel rebounds.
Boeing confirmed last month it had pushed the first delivery of the 777X to 2027 while taking a larger-than-expected $5 billion charge.
The company also updated its certification timeline assessment, anticipating the jet’s first delivery in 2027.
Earlier this month, Boeing received FAA approval to increase 737 MAX production to 42 aircraft monthly from the previous cap of 38. – Reuters
