The new Boeing 777X took to the skies and will now enter the next phase of its rigorous test programme. Based on the 777 and with technologies from the 787 Dreamliner, the 777X took off at Paine Field in Everett, Washington, for a three hour, 51 minute flight over Washington state before landing at Seattle’s Boeing Field.
“The 777X flew beautifully, and today’s testing was very productive. Thank you to all the teams who made today possible. I can’t wait to go fly your airplane again.”
Capt. Van Chaney, 777/777X Chief Pilot for Boeing Test & Evaluation
Capt. Chaney and Boeing Chief Pilot Craig Bomben worked through a detailed test plan to exercise the airplane’s systems and structures while the manufacturer’s test team in Seattle monitored the data in real time.
“Our Boeing team has taken the most successful twin-aisle jet of all time and made it even more efficient, more capable and more comfortable for all. Today’s safe first flight of the 777X is a tribute to the years of hard work and dedication from our teammates, our suppliers and our community partners in Washington state and across the globe.”
Stan Deal, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes
The first of four dedicated 777-9 flight test airplanes, WH001 will now undergo checks before resuming testing in the coming days. The test fleet, which began ground testing in Everett last year, will endure a series of tests and conditions on the ground and in the air over the coming months to prove the safety and reliability of the design.
For the 777X, Boeing promises a 10 percent lower fuel use and emissions and 10 percent lower operating costs than comparable aircraft by using advanced aerodynamics, the latest generation carbon-fiber composite wing and the largest ever built aircraft engine GE9X.
According to Boeing, passengers will enjoy a wide, spacious cabin, large overhead bins, larger windows for a view from every seat, better cabin altitude and humidity, less noise and a smoother ride.
Boeing expects to deliver the first 777X in 2021. Currently, the programme has 340 orders and commitments from carriers around the world, including ANA, British Airways, Cathay Pacific Airways, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways and Singapore Airlines.
777X Fact Sheet:
Photo Credit: Boeing
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