Boeing has paused testing of its long-delayed 777X aircraft after discovering structural issues with a component located between the engine and the plane’s wings. The company announced that it identified a part that failed to meet performance standards and is now replacing it to analyze the problem. The Air Current first reported the issue.
The 777X, touted as the world’s largest and most efficient twin-engine jet, was initially set to enter service in 2020. However, the project has faced numerous delays and cost overruns, with a revised launch date now pushed to 2025. The latest setback could further delay this timeline. Boeing indicated that testing of its four-aircraft fleet will resume once the issues are resolved.
This development adds to Boeing’s ongoing challenges, including a recent safety crisis involving a mid-air door plug blowout on a 737 Max operated by Alaska Airlines. The incident was attributed to missing bolts due to inadequate paperwork.
The 777X problems are part of a broader pattern of safety and quality concerns at Boeing, which have sparked federal investigations and contributed to delivery delays affecting airlines worldwide. Despite a recent win in July orders over Airbus, Boeing still trails its competitor significantly for the year.
Boeing’s stock fell 2% in premarket trading on Tuesday and is down nearly 30% for the year. The company has lost $33 billion since 2019, reflecting a significant decline from its former reputation for excellence in American aviation.