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Boeing 777 News

First flying Boeing 777-9X takes shape

Boeing 777-9X

- 20 November 2018 -
Boeing has put together the major fuselage sections of the first flying example of the 777X in its factory in Everett. The 777X will become the biggest twin-engine airliner in the world.

Boeing names it a major production milestone: 'final body join'. The nose, mid and rear section form a complete fuselage now. The jet measures 252 feet (77 meters) from nose to tail, making it the longest passenger jet the manufacturer has ever produced, longer than the stretched 747-8. Boeing already completed a 777X test airplane for static ground testing in September 2018.

For the 777X Boeing has introduced a new production system: production and development programme are integrated in an earlier stage than any other airplane. The 777X will be powered by two General Electric GE9X turbofans. The all-new composite wing will improve lift and efficiency and has a span of 235 feet (72 meters). A remarkable feature will be the folding wingtips, which allow the 777X to to park at the same airport platform positions as the existing 777 models. Cabin windows will be larger and located higher on the fuselage than those of the current 777.

Boeing will introduce two versions of the 777X. The aircraft now nearing its completion is a 777-9 model, with room for 400 to 425 passengers in a standard configuration and a range of 7,600 nautical miles (14,075 km). The shorter 777-8 will follow later.

The 777X's maiden flight is scheduled for 2019 and delivery should take place in 2020. Boeing has so far collected orders and commitments for 340 aircraft. The customer list includes All Nippon Airways, Cathay Pacific, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa and Singapore Airlines. (Photo: Boeing)



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