Boeing 777-9 Certification Progresses with Clearance for Next Phase

Boeing has been cleared by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to begin the next phase of certification for the widebody 777-9, sources told The Air Current.

The approval came last week and will allow the manufacturer to conduct systems demonstrations, the fourth phase of the certification program, which began in July 2024.

According to the outlet, the FAA issued Type Inspection Authorization (TIA) 2C, one of the final requirements in the approval process for commercial flights.

https://twitter.com/jonostrower/status/1949986161205923840

The 777X program will bring to market the largest twin-engine widebody in history, capable of carrying approximately 430 passengers in two classes and offering a more efficient alternative to older four-engine aircraft.

Another Test Aircraft on the Way

Boeing planned to put the 777-9, the first model in the series, into service in 2020, but engine problems and the crisis of confidence the company faced after the 737 MAX accidents put the program on hold.

Currently, four aircraft are involved in testing, but the aircraft manufacturer is preparing a fifth 777-9, registration N2007L (WH286), to join the program.

The fleet surpassed 4,000 flight hours in July, almost half of which were flown by prototype WH001 (N779XW).

As of June, Boeing had 551 orders for the 777X family, which also includes the 777-8F freighter and the long-range 777-8. The plan is to deliver the first 777-9 to Lufthansa in 2026.

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Ricardo Meier

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