Boeing has announced a new delay for its 777X aircraft, pushing first deliveries to early 2027 from the earlier 2026 target. This setback extends a decade-long development process that began with the program’s launch in 2013.
Lufthansa, the 777X’s launch customer, has revised its fleet plans to exclude the aircraft from near-term operations due to the delay. Airlines worldwide have been counting on the new widebody jet to modernize their long-haul fleets.
The hold-up is mainly due to challenges in the aircraft’s certification process. Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg described the remaining workload as a “mountain of work,” though no new technical issues have been identified.
The program has already cost Boeing over $10 billion in related charges. Analysts expect the company will report an additional $1 billion to $4 billion in charges in the upcoming third-quarter earnings, reflecting the ongoing financial strain.
The 777X was designed with new engines, bigger wings, and better fuel efficiency to be Boeing’s flagship long-haul jet. However, repeated delays raise questions about Boeing’s ability to meet airline and investor expectations as delivery slips into 2027.
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