FAA Approves Boeing 777X fresh Phase 2D sound Testing

SEATTLE- The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted Boeing approval to begin Phase 2D noise testing for the 777X. This marks an important certification milestone for the delayed widebody program.

Noise testing for the Boeing 777X will be performed in Glasgow, Montana (GGW). This step allows Boeing to expand its Type Inspection Authorization (TIA) process, with broader evaluations still to come.

GE9X Engine for Boeing 777-9; Photo: By Dan Nevill from Seattle | Wikimedia Commons

Boeing 777X 2D Noise Testing

The 777X program has been running significantly behind schedule. Boeing originally targeted first deliveries in 2020, but the current outlook forecasts certification in early 2026, followed by initial deliveries later that year.

Its test fleet has already logged more than 1,500 flights and nearly 4,200 flight hours. Reported by Simple Flying, the Phase 2D approval is a positive sign for an aircraft program that has faced repeated delays.

Once Phase 2D concludes, Boeing will proceed to TIA Phase 3, although that stage remains some time away.

Phase 3 will include a wider range of tests, such as verifying the Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) performance and cooling in varied conditions, confirming stability and control for safe handling, and conducting precipitation static (P-static) tests to ensure systems remain shielded from static build-up.

Aircraft Specifications:

The extended range and efficiency of the 777X position it as a key competitor in the global long-haul market.

Photo: Boeing

Lufthansa To Receive First 777X

Germany’s Lufthansa (LH) will be the first airline to take delivery of the Boeing 777-9, expected in mid-2026.

The carrier has ordered 20 of the passenger variant and seven Boeing 777-8F aircraft for Lufthansa Cargo (FRA).

Both the FAA and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) must certify the aircraft before it is delivered.

The 777X program encompasses three models: the 777-8, the 777-8F (freighter), and the 777-9. Lufthansa’s role as launch customer highlights its longstanding partnership with Boeing on widebody fleet expansion.

Photo: Clément Alloing

Technical Challenges And Delays

The Boeing 777X has faced multiple technical challenges. In 2020, an “uncommanded pitch event” caused the nose to rise unexpectedly without pilot input, forcing Boeing to rework flight control systems.

In mid-August 2024, thrust link failures discovered during testing caused another halt in certification, delaying the program further.

These issues were compounded later that year by a labor strike, which worsened delays.

Thrust links transfer loads between the engine and the wing structure. Boeing redesigned the components in spring 2025 to address fatigue problems in these load-bearing parts, eliminating a critical obstacle to certification testing.

Photo: Clément Alloing

Airline Orders And Market Demand

Despite setbacks, Boeing continues to record major 777X orders. As of May 2025, Gulf carriers represented the largest share of orders.

These were announced during US President Donald Trump’s official visit to the region, where Boeing’s CEO accompanied him.

Qatar Airways (QR) confirmed a deal for 210 Boeing widebodies, including 30 777-9s and 130 787 Dreamliners, along with options for 50 more aircraft.

Etihad Airways (EY) also signed for 28 Boeing 787s and 777X jets, though it has not disclosed how many 777Xs are included in the order.

China Airlines (CI) became the newest East Asian customer, ordering 23 Boeing 777X aircraft. The Taiwanese carrier purchased 10 777-9 passenger jets and four 777-8 freighters, with options for five more 777-9s and four additional 777-8Fs.

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