Boeing halts trials of its problematic 777X models due to identified structural glitches.
In a test flight, Boeing uncovered issues with a particular component situated between the engine and the plane's wings. According to Boeing's announcement, they identified a component that failed to perform as intended, leading them to replace the part to gather any insights from its functioning.
The 777X, touted by Boeing as the "world's largest and most efficient twin-engine jet," was scheduled to commence operations in 2020. However, the plane has faced numerous delays and financial overheads.
Another potential hurdle might impact its revised 2025 launch date. Boeing stated that the test flights of its four-aircraft fleet will resume once conditions permit.
Since its debut in 1995, the 777 has been highly successful for Boeing, securing its position as the top-selling wide-body aircraft. The 777X would offer airlines an additional version of the plane, alongside the well-liked but outdated 777-300ER.
This is yet another setback for Boeing, currently grappling with a safety predicament following the mid-air explosion of one of its door plugs on a 737 Max flight operated by Alaska Airlines earlier this year. According to Boeing, an oversight in documentation led to the four bolts required to secure the door plug not being installed before the plane left the factory last year.
The 777X issues are merely the latest in a series of safety and quality concerns plaguing Boeing's production facilities. These problems have sparked multiple federal investigations and whistleblower accusations, and have contributed to delays in jet deliveries, causing troubles for airlines and passengers globally.
Last week, Boeing saw a win against Airbus in July orders for new planes. However, it still lags behind its competitor in overall orders for the year, as safety concerns continue to harm the company's reputation.
Since 2019, Boeing has incurred a loss of $33 billion — a staggering figure that underscores the significant fall from grace experienced by the company, once synonymous with American excellence.
Boeing's shares (BA) saw a decrease of 2% in premarket trading on Tuesday. The stock has experienced a decline of nearly 30% this year.
–CNN's Chris Isidore and Tamara Hardingham-Gill contributed to this report.
The 777X delays and financial overheads pose a challenge to Boeing's business profitability. addressing the quality concerns in its production facilities is critical for Boeing to regain its reputation and boost its sales.
