Aviation

Boeing Faces New Setbacks as 777X Delays Extend and scraps B767-300F

Boeing’s challenges continue as employees halted production due to a strike, creating new obstacles for delivering aircraft to customers. The company now faces financial losses from delays in the delivery of its boeing 777x aircraft.

Boeing recently announced that the new delivery date for the 777-9 will be in 2026, with the freighter variant scheduled for 2028. This news has been frustrating for airlines that have committed to and are waiting for the aircraft.

Mega Comparison of Boeing 777x vs A350-1000 Aircraft

The Boeing 777X program, which began in early 2019, was initially delayed to 2021 due to COVID-19 disruptions. Subsequent issues, including defects found during testing, have placed the program under scrutiny by the FAA, which insists on the aircraft meeting all safety standards before entering service. Boeing is now facing pressure from both airlines and investors.

Boeing 777x Delay

New Commercial Airplanes expects to incur pre-tax charges of $3.0 billion related to the Boeing 777X and 767 programs.

The company forecasts a $2.6 billion pre-tax charge due to the updated timeline, which accounts for delays in flight testing for the 777-9 and the impact of the IAM (International Association of Machinists) work stoppage. The first 777-9 delivery is now expected in 2026, with the 777-8 freighter following in 2028.

Exploring the Boeing 777x: Highlights from the Debut at …

In addition, Boeing plans to conclude production of the 767 freighter, resulting in a $0.4 billion pre-tax charge. From 2027 onwards, the company will solely produce the 767-2C aircraft for the KC-46A Tanker program.

In August 2024, Boeing grounded its 777X test fleet after detecting a failure in a key engine mounting structure during a routine inspection. The new boeing 777x, powered by the GE9X engine, is the world’s largest and most efficient twin-engine jet, but this issue has caused further setbacks.

Boeing 777x, A close-up of the engine, landing gear, and wing

Comparison of 777x vs A350

Meanwhile, the Airbus A350 continues to secure new orders from airlines, becoming a strong competitor in the wide-body aircraft segment. While the a350 vs b777 offer similar ranges, the 777X is designed to carry a heavier payload.

In other developments, Boeing has hinted at starting production of a new mid-sized aircraft, the Boeing 797, which would likely compete with the Airbus A321 XLR.

Aviation

China Airlines eyes new aircraft order for 777X and A350-1000

Taiwan’s largest airline, China Airlines, is actively evaluating options to replace its fleet of 10 Boeing 777-300ERs, which primarily operate on U.S. routes and high-density regional services. The airline is considering the latest offerings from Boeing, specifically the boeing 777x and Airbus’s A350-1000 as potential replacements.

This aircraft won’t need a runway

Chairman’s Statement
In a recent statement, China Airlines Chairman Hsieh Shih-chien confirmed that the airline is in the assessment phase for the new aircraft. When questioned about possible political influences on the decision, Hsieh firmly stated, “When it comes to buying aircraft, it is only China Airlines ourselves who makes the assessment. I want to clarify this.” His remarks emphasize the airline’s autonomy in the decision-making process, highlighting the absence of external pressures.

Political Context
Despite the complexities surrounding Taiwan’s international status, the United States remains Taiwan’s most significant ally and arms supplier. Notably, the Taiwanese government is the majority owner of China Airlines, which adds another layer to the airline’s strategic considerations in aircraft acquisitions.

Airbus Collaboration
In addition to evaluating new aircraft, China Airlines has recently entered into a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Airbus to retrofit its existing fleet of 15 A350-900s. This collaboration will see upgrades to the airline’s cabin layout and the installation of state-of-the-art amenities.

Boeing to Slash 17,000 Jobs Worldwide Amid Ongoing Factory Strike

Airbus Services will oversee the enhancements, which include new Premium Business Class, Premium Economy Class, and Economy Class seating. Passengers can anticipate a more luxurious travel experience, complete with improved seating and advanced in-flight entertainment.