Boeing has found the same type of crack in the engine mounts of the 777-9 registered N779XZ, also known as WH004.
Sources at Aviation Week confirmed that at least one of the engine support links is damaged. The problem was found in the other three 777Xs used in the widebody certification.
The test aircraft WH004, painted only in white, is the newest in the planemaker’s fleet, having flown for the first time in September 2020, but has been grounded for almost three years.
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Boeing has been using WH003 (N779XY) for certification flights with the FAA and it was after one of these tests on August 15 that an inspection found fatigued parts in the engine struts.
The discovery led to the aircraft being grounded since then. According to Aviation Week, the struts are supplied by third parties, but Boeing has not yet disclosed exactly which part was affected.
The 777X is equipped exclusively with the new GE9X turbofan and is attached to the wings by means of two links. Until now, the manufacturer had not disclosed a forecast for the resumption of flights to its customers, sources said to the outlet.
Doubts about the timeline for entry into service
After a long wait, Boeing obtained approval from the FAA in July to begin certification flights. Currently, the 777-9 WH003 is parked in Hawaii, where flights were taking place with teams from the US Civil Aviation Authority.
Boeing had planned to obtain type certification for the 777-9 by the end of next year and begin deliveries to Lufthansa and Emirates shortly thereafter.
It is not yet clear whether the new setback will impact the already delayed development schedule.
With a capacity to carry about 430 passengers in two classes, the 777-9 can fly distances of up to 7,285 nm (13,500 km). It is seen as a more efficient alternative to the older four-engine 747 and Airbus A380.
There are also two other variants, the 777-8, with capacity for 395 passengers and a range of 8,746 nm (16,200 km), and the 777-8F freighter, which can carry up to 112 tons of cargo.
