Boeing Gains FAA & EASA Approval for 777-9 Training Simulators

Boeing has secured initial qualification certificates for its 777-9 flight training simulators from both the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The approval, announced on February 19, 2026, marks a critical step toward preparing pilots for the new widebody aircraft and moves the long-delayed 777X program closer to entry into service.

This regulatory milestone allows the FAA and EASA to begin using the advanced simulators to validate and approve the pilot training courseware for the 777-9. It is a prerequisite for airlines to commence their own pilot training programs. The qualification signifies confidence from regulators in the simulator's ability to accurately replicate the flight characteristics of the 777-9, the larger variant of the new 777X family. The program has faced significant delays, with Boeing now targeting the first aircraft delivery for 2027, a shift from its original 2020 target.

Training Infrastructure and Regulatory Process

The newly qualified full-flight simulators, developed in collaboration with CAE Inc., are located at Boeing's Training Campus in Gatwick, United Kingdom. These devices are essential for safely training flight crews on the aircraft's systems, flight dynamics, and emergency procedures before they operate the actual jet. According to Boeing, the 777-9 flight deck is designed for a high degree of commonality with the existing 777 and 787 Dreamliner, which is intended to streamline pilot training and reduce operational costs for carriers.

The Initial Simulator Qualification Certificates are a key part of the broader Aircraft Type Certification process. Achieving this step is particularly important in the current climate of increased regulatory scrutiny, which has intensified following the certification challenges of other aircraft programs.

Path to Entry Into Service

The 777X program was first launched in November 2013, with the first 777-9 flight taking place in January 2020. The aircraft is designed to seat approximately 426 passengers in a two-class layout and has a projected range of 7,285 nautical miles. The simulator qualification is a positive development for the program, which has been hampered by certification hurdles.

With this approval, Boeing and its airline customers can move forward with developing and finalizing the training footprint for the new aircraft. The next major hurdle remains the full type certification of the 777-9 itself. The successful validation of the training devices is a foundational element required before the aircraft can be cleared for commercial service, which remains subject to regulatory approval and is expected in 2027. For more details, see the official announcement from Boeing.

From airline operations to fleet updates, commercial aviation news lives at flying.flights. Get the latest updates on major hubs, regional terminals, and airport operations via the Airports section at flying.flights/airports.