Over the weekend, Boeing accomplished a successful flight of the largest twin-engine jetliner worldwide.
This achievement marks a step towards recovery for the aircraft manufacturer, which has faced challenges in the past year. While the Boeing 737 MAX remains grounded, the spotlight is now on the inaugural flight of the new 777X. As the 777X touched down, a fleet of idle 737 MAX aircraft could be seen in the background.
The 777X is an enlarged version of the 777 mini-turbo. After its debut only four hours prior, the aircraft landed at the Boeing field near Seattle at 2 PM on Saturday. The flight took place under relatively clear skies after being postponed twice due to high winds. Extensive testing will be conducted over the coming months before the new jet is ready for commercial airline service. Stan Deal, Chief Executive of Boeing’s commercial airplane unit, expressed pride in the successful flight, stating, “It made all of our employees proud one more time of who we are and what we get to do, by flying a brand new airplane that is going to change the world one more time.”
The innovative 777X is equipped with folding wingtips that allow its carbon wings to fit into existing parking bays. Additionally, it boasts the world’s largest commercial engines.