Boeing Redesigns Thrust Links for 777X
Boeing has taken a decisive step in the race to certify its flagship aircraft, the 777X. The U.S.-based company has redesigned the engine thrust links, critical components that connect the wing structure to the engines. These parts came under scrutiny in August 2024 when cracks were detected in several units, prompting the suspension of all test flights.
According to Aviation Week, Boeing plans to install the new thrust links this summer as part of a broader set of structural improvements. This component had already caused a four-month delay in certification testing, directly impacting the program’s timeline.
A Series of Setbacks Dating Back to 2020
The 777X program, initially slated for certification in 2020, has been plagued by setbacks. One of the most serious occurred that same year when an “uncommanded pitch event” was reported, in which the aircraft’s nose unexpectedly lifted without pilot input. This incident led to years of delays.
The second major setback came in August 2024 with the failure of the thrust links, grounding all four test aircraft in the program. A subsequent labor strike further exacerbated the situation.
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It wasn’t until mid-January 2025 that Boeing resumed certification flights, now confident that the redesigns will meet the requirements of the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) and EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency).
Will Deliveries Begin in 2026?
As of early 2025, Boeing aims to achieve certification by the end of the year or early 2026. The first deliveries are tentatively scheduled for the same year, though skepticism persists in the industry.
Emirates, the largest global customer for the 777X with 205 units on order, expects to receive its first aircraft by late 2026. This was confirmed by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the airline’s Chairman and CEO, during a press conference at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai. The airline had previously expressed doubts about whether the timeline could be met.
Lufthansa: First in Line
Among the airlines awaiting the new aircraft are Qatar Airways, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, and Lufthansa—the latter positioned to be the first to receive the model once certification is complete. The German carrier has ordered 20 Boeing 777-9s and seven units of the cargo variant, the 777-8F, for its Lufthansa Cargo division.
The 777X represents the next generation of the popular 777, with variants including the 777-8, 777-8F, and 777-9. Boeing is betting on improvements in efficiency, range, and passenger comfort—key features to remain competitive against the Airbus A350.
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