Boeing has once again postponed the delivery schedule for the first 777X, now expected by the end of 2023. The new schedule was revealed on Wednesday during the presentation of the 2020 results.
“Boeing now anticipates that the first 777X delivery will occur in late 2023. This schedule, and the associated financial impact, reflect a number of factors, including an updated assessment of global certification requirements, the company’s latest assessment of COVID-19 impacts on market demand, and discussions with its customers with respect to aircraft delivery timing “, said the company statement.
Lufthansa and Emirates will be the first to receive the 777-9, the largest twin-engine passenger jetliner in history, but the carrier in the Middle East had already recognized that the aircraft would not be incorporated into the fleet until 2023.
“2020 was a year of profound societal and global disruption which significantly constrained our industry. The deep impact of the pandemic on commercial air travel, coupled with the 737 MAX grounding, challenged our results. I am proud of the resilience and dedication our global team demonstrated in this environment as we strengthened our safety processes, adapted to our market and supported our customers, suppliers, communities and each other,” said Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun.
According to the company, the 777X program has accumulated $6.5 billion of pre-tax charges. Boeing has 350 orders for the aircraft, the most recent of which was placed by British Airways in 2019. Until last year, Boeing said the first delivery of the 777X would occur in 2022 after development delays and problems with GE9X turbofans having affected the program.
Despite this scenario, the US manufacturer maintained its monthly production forecast for two 777 jets, including the classic widebody series. With revenue 24% lower than in 2019, Boeing posted a net loss of almost $12 billion last year.
