SEATTLE- Boeing has reaffirmed that its long-delayed 777X widebody family is now on track to enter service this decade. The 777-9 will debut in 2026, followed by the 777-8 Freighter in 2028 and the 777-8 passenger variant by the end of the decade.
Speaking at the Paris Air Show, Boeing executives expressed renewed confidence in the timeline after resolving key structural issues and gaining FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) support for advancing the certification process.
Photo: Clément AlloingBoeing Closer to 777X Certification
The 777X program — comprising the 777-9, 777-8, and a dedicated freighter version — was first announced in 2013 at the Dubai Airshow.
Despite over a decade of development setbacks, the aircraft now appears poised for commercial debut.
Justin Hale, customer lead for the 777X, confirmed with the Seattle Times at the Paris Air Show that Boeing is aligning its manufacturing and regulatory milestones to meet the revised timeline.
The 777-9 will enter service first in 2026, becoming Boeing’s largest commercial aircraft. It will be followed by the 777-8F freighter in 2028 and the 777-8 passenger jet “toward the end of the decade.”
These aircraft offer advanced aerodynamics, improved fuel efficiency, and significant passenger and cargo upgrades over legacy models like the 777-300ER and 747 freighter.
Photo: Clément AlloingAddressing Technical Hurdles
The 777X program has faced years of regulatory delays, heightened scrutiny following the 737 MAX incidents, and manufacturing issues.
FAA approval for official flight testing was granted only in July 2024 — four years after the 777-9 began preliminary flights. However, Boeing’s optimism has grown under new FAA leadership.
A major setback in 2024 involved cracks in the aircraft’s thrust link — a titanium structure connecting the engine to the airframe. Boeing engineers identified a vibration issue caused by airflow restrictions near a cooling port.
To address it, the company redesigned the part with thicker titanium, closed the airflow gap, and added reinforced insulation. Since the fix, no further issues have been reported in test flights.
CEO Kelly Ortberg emphasized the need for a streamlined certification process, citing progress but noting that more work is required before entry into service.
Photo: Clément AlloingA Redefined Passenger and Cargo Experience
The 777X family builds on the legacy of Boeing’s original 777 series with major upgrades in size, technology, and passenger comfort.
The 777-9, 3 meters longer than the 777-300ER, will accommodate 30 more passengers. Meanwhile, the 777-8, slightly shorter than the 777-300ER, will add seating through redesigned door placement and interior layout.
Cabin innovations include wider seats, higher-placed windows aligned with eye level, and redesigned stowage bins for more spacious interiors. These features aim to position the 777X as a next-generation flagship for long-haul operations.
The 777-8F freighter, designed to replace the retiring 747 cargo fleet, will be 7 meters longer than the current 777F and capable of carrying seven additional cargo pallets, significantly enhancing operational efficiency for air freight operators.
Photo: BoeingRemaining Concerns
Boeing has secured 535 orders from 14 airlines for the 777X program. However, some leasing companies remain cautious. John Plueger, CEO of Air Lease Corporation, voiced concerns about long-term secondary market demand for the aircraft after their first leasing cycle.
Air Lease has not placed orders for the 777X or other yet-to-be-certified Boeing jets like the 737 MAX 7 and MAX 10, citing narrow customer interest. Plueger warned that any additional delays “only hurt” the program’s momentum.
Nevertheless, Boeing remains focused on expanding its customer base and completing certifications for all pending models, aiming to restore confidence across the industry.
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News
Differences Between New Boeing 777X And 777
The post Boeing 777X Certification Nears as it Moves Closer to Launch appeared first on Aviation A2Z.
