Will Boeing 777X Certification Slide Past 2027 Due to New FAA Demands?

Sources familiar with the matter report Boeing is facing further delays in its 777X program. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is reportedly requesting additional safety enhancements. This new scrutiny focuses on the aircraft's critical 777X flight control system. The regulatory pressure could push the 777-9 entry-into-service date past the current 2027 target.

Background on the 777X Program

The 777X is a key new widebody jet delay for Boeing. It is an upgraded version of the successful 777 widebody. The aircraft features new General Electric GE9X engines and folding wingtips. The original plan was for the 777-9 to enter service in 2020. However, the program has faced multiple setbacks over the years. These issues included engine-mounted thrust link failures and regulatory scrutiny.

Increased oversight followed the 737 MAX grounding. This led to a more rigorous aircraft certification process. The FAA and European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) demanded changes. They required more data and a new certification approach. Boeing announced the revised 2027 EIS target in late 2025. This was seven years later than the initial expectation.

The Core Regulatory Hurdle

The latest reported delay centers on the 777X flight control system. The system's complexity is a major focus for the FAA. Early in the program, the aircraft experienced an "uncommanded pitch event" during a test flight. This incident raised serious concerns about the flight control software. The FAA has also focused on the Common Core System (CCS) avionics. This critical system manages multiple airplane functions. The agency required Boeing to provide conclusive evidence on software and hardware fixes.

In late 2025, Boeing received a key approval. The FAA granted Type Inspection Authorization (TIA) Phase 3. This milestone covered avionics and other substantive systems. However, the new reported request for FAA safety enhancements suggests new issues or deeper scrutiny. This indicates the Boeing 777X certification remains a significant challenge.

Industry Impact and Airline Concerns

The continued delays are creating major headaches for airlines. Key customers have been waiting years for the new widebody jet. Launch customer Lufthansa and major buyer Emirates have had to adjust their airline delivery schedules. Emirates President Sir Tim Clark has previously voiced frustration over the program's lack of visibility. The airline relies on the 777X for its long-haul fleet strategy.

• Financial Toll: Boeing recorded a $4.9 billion charge in Q3 2025. This charge was directly linked to the 777X development and delivery delays.
• Fleet Planning: Airlines must now use older aircraft for longer. They are also considering alternatives from competitor Airbus.
• Market Share: Delays allow the Airbus A350 to gain a stronger foothold in the long-range market segment.

Path Forward for Boeing

Boeing maintains its commitment to safety as its top priority. The company is working closely with the FAA to meet all new requirements. The focus is on the remaining TIA phases. These final phases involve compliance checks and documentation. The company must demonstrate a robust and reliable 777X flight control system. The goal is to avoid any similar future systemic issues. The outcome of this regulatory review is vital for the future of the commercial aviation news cycle and the entire widebody market. You can find more updates on this story and other commercial aviation news at flying.flights.

• New Certification Era: The new regulatory environment requires more documentation. It also demands greater transparency from the manufacturer.
• Customer Relations: Rebuilding trust with major customers is now paramount. This includes providing clear airline delivery schedules.
• Safety Culture: The delays underscore the need for a stronger safety culture at Boeing.