Boeing Advances 777-9 Certification: Enters Third Testing Phase
Boeing received approval last week from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to begin the third of five major phases in the flight certification tests for the 777-9. According to two sources familiar with the progress who spoke to The Air Current, this stage represents the most extensive block of evaluations within this model’s certification program.
Accumulated Delays and New Entry-Into-Service Date
The entry into service of the 777-9 has been postponed until 2027, seven years later than the original date planned in 2020. Boeing announced this new schedule last month, attributing the delay to the extensive documentation required to advance through each phase of the Type Inspection Authorization (TIA) process.
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What does the TIA process involve?
The TIA is a multi-stage procedure that validates aspects of the aircraft’s design are ready to accumulate certification credits during various ground and flight evaluations. This process is essential to ensure the design meets regulatory standards before final approval.
Financial Impact on Boeing
Due to the prolonged development of the 777-9, the slow approval of TIA phases, the production rate, and the remaining tests, Boeing recorded a non-cash pre-tax charge of $4.9 billion in its third-quarter results. This adjustment reflects the financial impact of the accumulated delays in the program.
The FAA’s approval marks a significant step for Boeing on the path to certifying the 777-9, an aircraft that has faced multiple challenges since its inception. With the third phase now underway, the manufacturer is preparing to face the most demanding part of the process, with its sights set on 2027 as the entry-into-service year.
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