Boeing resumes testing of ‘world’s largest and most efficient’ jet
Aerospace giant Boeing said it has resumed testing of the “world’s largest and most efficient twin-engine jet” on Thursday, after repeated delays.
Its 777X, originally due in late 2023, saw engine issues halt tests in October.
Ohio-based GE Aerospace cited a technical issue in one of its GE9X engines, built specifically for the plane.
Manufacturers have faced tougher requirements in the US since 2020, when issues with the Boeing 737 Max led to two fatal crashes, partially contributing to Boeing delaying the rollout of the aircraft until 2025.
The Federal Aviation Administration suggested in March that current certification schedules were “outdated.”
Boeing boss Dave Calhoun later said getting aircraft approved was “definitely a more rigorous process”.
British Airways, Emirates and Etihad are among the airlines to have ordered the new aircraft, due to be used for both freight and passenger flights, under the names 777-8 and 777-9.
The aircraft “will deliver the flight experience of the future” according to Boeing, which begin its development in 2013 and flew it for the first time in early 2020.
This includes the delivery of 10% fewer emissions, lower fuel consumption and cheaper running costs.