Boeing paused flight tests for its long-awaited 777X after finding a problem with a crucial part — a first setback for its new CEO

A Boeing 777X at 2022’s Farnborough Airshow.

Boeing has paused flight tests for the long-awaited 777X widebody jet after finding a problem with a key component.

The part in question is a crucial piece of the structure that connects the engine to the plane.

The Air Current, which first reported the news, said that Boeing found issues with one of the parts on three of its test aircraft.

“During scheduled maintenance, we identified a component that did not perform as designed,” Boeing said in a statement shared with B-17. “Our team is replacing the part and capturing any learnings from the component and will resume flight testing when ready.”

It added that each engine includes two of the custom components so there is redundancy.

The discovery adds more difficulties for the embattled planemaker as it fights to win back customers’ trust following January’s 737 Max blowout.

Kelly Ortberg, who became Boeing’s CEO earlier this month, has received praise from airline bosses since he signaled his intent to improve quality control in production plants.

But now he has another challenge in achieving certification for the 777X — which is already years behind schedule.

It isn’t clear whether the pause in flight tests will cause further delays. Boeing said it is keeping the Federal Aviation Administration fully informed on the issue and has shared information with its customers.

The 777X began flight tests last month. It’s a modernized version of its best-selling widebody jet, set to be more fuel-efficient and provide increased passenger comfort.

Boeing has received 481 orders for the jet from over a dozen airlines, including British Airways, Emirates, and Qatar Airways. It competes with the Airbus A350.

The planemaker initially hoped the 777X would enter service in 2020, but later adjusted its target to 2025. Some airline bosses like Emirates’ Tim Clark have previously suggested 2026 is more likely.

Qatar Airways CEO Badr Mohammed Al-Meer told reporters on the sidelines of July’s Farnborough Airshow, “What’s important now, for us, is to receive it in the first quarter of 2026.”