Boeing Delays New Jet for the Sixth Time
Boeing has confirmed earlier reports that its new 777X aircraft will not debut in 2026, but will be delayed for a sixth time until 2027. The aircraft manufacturer recorded a $4.9-billion pre-tax charge against earnings related to the delay, some of which is attributable to the penalties it will pay to various airlines for missing the delivery target dates.
The new aircraft was announced in 2011 and initially planned to be in service by 2019.
No specific cause of the latest delay was offered, but it’s likely that the Federal Aviation Administration certification process is taking longer than anticipated.
Boeing is simultaneously working to gain FAA approval for two new 737 MAX variants.
"While we are disappointed in the 777X schedule delay, the airplane continues to perform well in flight testing, and we remain focused on the work ahead to complete our development programs and stabilize our operations in order to fully recover our company's performance and restore trust with all of our stakeholders," Boeing president and chief executive officer stated in the company’s Q3 earnings report.
The 777X is a twin-engine, long-range aircraft that is a modernized version of the current 777, offering improved fuel efficiency while also incorporating the more spacious passenger cabin achieved with Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner.
The 777X is also designed to match the 787’s flight systems – for flight crews’ familiarity. To ensure the new aircraft will be able to operate from existing hangars and gates, its longer wings have folding carbon-composite tips.
The new aircraft will be offered in three variants, the 777-8 for up to 395 passengers and a range of 8,745 nautical miles (16,196 km / 10,064 mi); the 777-9 for 426 passengers and a range of 7,285 nmi (13,492 km; 8,383 mi) ; and a freighter model.
Boeing lists a total of 551 orders for the 777X, mostly for the larger 777-9 – including a significant order from Korean Air announced in August.
Other airlines that would be affected by the delay include Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad Airways. During the current year, Taiwan’s China Airlines and Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific Airlines have placed new orders for the 777X.