Boeing halts 777X test flights due to structural issue in critical component
Boeing is pausing flight testing its fleet of 777X aircrafts after discovering structural problems.
"During scheduled maintenance, we identified a component that did not perform as designed," the company said in a statement to FOX Television Stations. "Our team is replacing the part and capturing any learnings from the component and will resume flight testing when ready."
The aeropsace manufacturer placed the blame on a structural component part, custom to the 777-9, between the engine and the airplane structure.
The Boeing 777X flies during the Farnborough International Airshow 2022 on July 19, 2022 in Farnborough, England. Farnborough International Airshow 2022 will host leading innovators from the aerospace, aviation and defence industries. (Photo by John
The company said they are continuing to inspect the test fleet for the condition, and are keeping the Federal Aviation Administration and customers "fully informed."
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What is the Boeing 777X?
The 777X is meant to compete with the Airbus A350. It is expected to carry as many as 400 passengers and to be 20 percent more fuel efficient than the current 777.
Instead of the current all-aluminum wing, the 777X wing is expected to be made from composites, the same high-tech plastic that makes up most of Boeing’s 787.