- The Boeing 777X program has faced delays and design changes and is still in flight testing.
- The 777X offers increased efficiency, innovative design features, and an improved passenger experience.
- Nearly 200 pilots tested the 777X and provided positive feedback, feeling comfortable operating the aircraft.
The Boeing 777X program was first launched in November 2014, and the first 777X flew in January 2020. The program has faced many delays and implemented several design changes, and the 777X remains in flight testing. A recent visit to Boeing by Simple Flying’s Jonathan E. Hendry revealed that Boeing brought in nearly 200 pilots to perform tests on the 777X and evaluate design changes.
The 777X is expected to be a game-changing aircraft in the widebody market. Boeing states that airplanes will be notably more efficient than competing aircraft, such as the Airbus A350-1000, and will provide 10% lower operating costs.
The 777x also offers many exciting design changes to the 777 family , both in performance and passenger and crew experience. The aircraft features folding wingtips, providing an increased wingspan and improved aerodynamics. Its GE9X engines are the most fuel efficient in their class and feature an innovative design.
The interior cabin is expanded, and raised, larger windows are included to provide all passengers with views. The flight deck features the latest technology in a familiar, easy-to-use configuration that maintains commonality with the 777-300ER and the 787 Dreamliner family.
Simple Flying’s interview with Boeing representatives, including chief engineer Brad Till, gave insights into the flight testing being conducted on the 777X. Plans for a 2025 service entry were also discussed.
The overall opinion of the 777X’s and its design changes is very favorable. Pilots reported feeling comfortable in the aircraft and enjoying their time at the controls.
Boeing is anticipating certification of one aircraft per year until 2025.
The Boeing 777X
The Boeing 777X will be the largest and most efficient twin-engine jet in the world. The 777X family builds on the 777-300ER and consists of two variants: the 777-8 and 777-9.
The 777-8 is the smallest member of the 777X family. Per Boeing, the aircraft has a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 805,000 lb. (365,150 kg) and can seat 395 passengers in a two-class configuration. The 777-8 is 12.9 feet (3.9 m) shorter than the 777-300ER but has a longer range.
The 777-9 is larger than its smaller sibling, with an MTOW of 775,000 lb. (351,550 kg). This variant can seat 426 passengers in a two-class configuration, which is 34 more passengers than the 777-300ER. The 777-9 is also 7.0 feet (2.1 m) longer than the 777-300ER.
The 777X variants feature major advancements in performance and aerodynamics, providing airlines with greater efficiency and increased revenue. According to Boeing, the 777X will have 10% lower fuel use and CO2 emissions and 10% lower operating costs than the Airbus A350-1000.
| 777-8 | 777-9 | |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 395 | 426 |
| Range | 8,745 NM (16,190 km) | 7,285 NM (13,500 km) |
| Length | 232 ft, 6 in (70.86 m) | 251 ft, 9 in (76.72 m) |
| Wingspan | Extended: 235 ft, 5 in (71.75 m) On ground: 212 ft, 9 in (64.85 m) | Extended: 235 ft, 5 in (71.75 m) On ground: 212 ft, 9 in (64.85 m) |
Exciting 777X features
One of the most notable features of the 777X is its unique folding wingtips. The aircraft’s wingspan is 212 feet, 9 inches (64.85 m), just a bit longer than that of the Airbus A350 (64.75 m).
However, the 777X’s composite wings feature folding wingtips that provide an additional 6.9 meters, resulting in a better lift-to-drag ratio and lower fuel use. The wingtips are folded once on the ground to allow the aircraft to fit at existing gates. Boeing states that the increased wingspan gives the aircraft 5% better aerodynamics than the A350-1000.
The 777X also features GE9X engines specifically designed for the aircraft family. This engine has six fewer fan blades than the GE90 engine, maximizing airflow and minimizing drag.
According to GE Aerospace, the 777X engine is the most fuel-efficient in its class. Its design also enables quieter flight with fewer emissions.
Another key feature of the 777X is its innovative passenger experience. Some of the major improvements or changes include:
- Lower cabin altitude
- Improved humidity
- Cleaner air
- Smooth ride technology
- Improved temperature control
- Lower cabin noise
Boeing representatives told Simple Flying staff that the aircraft’s interior is “an all-new design.” He also remarked that many customers are keeping their interior design plans “under wraps.”
Additionally, the 777X offers a wider cabin for increased flexibility and higher revenue. The new 777 cabins are four inches (10.16 cm) wider than the 777-300ER cabins. The windows are also 29% larger and placed higher in the fuselage, increasing natural light and providing all passengers with a view outside the aircraft.
The 777X’s design also considered pilots. Boeing was sure to use the latest flight deck technology and maintain commonality with the 777 and 787. The interactive, familiar touch screens are simple to use and have multiple touch points.
Pilot opinions on the 777X
In designing and planning the 777X, Boeing wanted to get a pilot perspective and feedback on some of the aircraft’s new features. According to Simple Flying’s conversation with Boeing representatives during a recent visit, nearly 200 pilots were brought in to operate the engineering simulator in Seattle.
Most of these pilots have a background in 787s or 777-300ERs, and Boeing reported they were all “very comfortable” operating the 777X. Pilots also remarked on their confidence while flying the 777X due to its seamless integration with the 777 and 787 Dreamliner families.
Boeing representatives had the pilots take off, land, and operate the new touchscreen controls during their time in the simulator. Feedback and data were gathered during these tests, and Boeing reported the information to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to further the 777X’s certification.
Several test pilots discussed their experience. Most agreed that the 777X took the positive aspects of the 777-300ER and made them even better. According to their comments, the tests were very enjoyable, and the new features are innovative and practical.
When will the 777X be in service?
The first 777X variant, the 777-9, was expected to enter service in 2020. However, due to many delays and setbacks, the program has been pushed back several times.
After the initial delay due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Boeing estimated the first 777X delivery for 2022. However, several modifications to the aircraft’s design in the past few years have delayed its service entry date even further.
A 2021 article by FlightGlobal reports that on January 21, Boeing announced the first delivery of the 777-9 to be in “late 2023.” The reason behind this postponement was provided by Boeing chief executive, David Calhoun, who said the company was:
Making prudent design modifications as necessary.
In 2023, Aviation News released an update on the 777X’s progress. According to the article, Boeing increased the 777-8’s fuselage length by 3.5 feet, which increased passenger capacity and range. This modification aimed to close the order gap with the 777-9, which has been in higher demand.
According to the recent interview by Simple Flying staff at Boeing, the FAA is not waiting on anything further from the aerospace company. Currently, questions are “being asked back and forth” to confirm the aircraft meets all standards. Boeing’s Calhoun also told FlightGlobal,
We are confident in the 777X airplane and the unmatched capability it will offer our customers,
Boeing emphasizes its desire to ensure the 777X will be the safest, most reliable aircraft in the skies . The current projected service entry date is 2025.
