The primary Boeing 777X certification issues are a significant "mountain of work" for the company, extensive FAA scrutiny due to past safety incidents and manufacturing concerns, and the inherent complexities of the aircraft's large size and structure. While no new technical issues have emerged recently, the overall certification process is delayed, with the first delivery now expected in 2026, six years past the original target. The FAA is demanding more thorough testing for the 777X, especially concerning structural and handling complexities from its large wingspan and weight.
Key Issues
- The 777X's immense size, including its record-breaking wingspan, presents unique structural and handling challenges, requiring more extensive testing than usual.
- Following previous safety issues with other Boeing models, regulators are applying heightened scrutiny to the 777X program, demanding more thorough proof of safety and operational readiness.
- Boeing's CEO, Kelly Ortberg, has stated there is a vast amount of work remaining in the certification process, which is complex and time-consuming.
- The significant delays in certification have disappointed and pressured airlines waiting to update their fleets, as delivery expectations have been pushed back multiple times.
Specific Events
- A damage issue on the thrust link of a 777-9 test aircraft caused a temporary suspension of flight testing for about five months.
- Recent brake certification tests have taken significantly longer than anticipated, highlighting the challenging nature of the remaining certification work.
Timeline Impact
- The initial target for the 777X's entry into service was 2021, but the first delivery is now not expected until 2026.
- The cumulative problems and delays have already cost Boeing billions of dollars.
No comments:
Post a Comment