Was Initially To Have Flown In June Of This Year

Boeing says that there has been a delay in the first flight of its 777X airliner caused by issues that have been developed in the GE9X engine.

In its second-quarter financial report, Boeing said "The 777X program is progressing well through pre-flight testing. While the company is still targeting late 2020 for the first delivery of the 777X, there is a significant risk to this schedule given engine challenges, which are delaying the first flight until early 2020."

Sam Chui posted a story on his Aviation & Travel blog that indicates that the GE9X suffered from durability issues during a 150-hour certification test. The engines have been recalled, and GE is working on a solution that will involve stator vane improvements in the second stage of the high-pressure compressor.

Boeing still believes that the 777X will enter revenue service by the end of 2020. Launch customer Lufthansa says they still expect to receive their first airplane in December of 2020, and Emirates is looking to take delivery of a 777X in January 2021.

(Image from file)

FMI: Source report