777X certification signals and widebody backlog/geopolitical scrutiny, freighter shifts
Key Questions
What is the certification status of the 777X?
FAA Phase 4A testing completed March 17, production starts April 2026, deliveries in 2027, EIS 2026-27. 777-9 brake tests succeeded at 2500°F+ max TOW reject at Edwards.
What recent 777X orders have been placed?
Korean Air ordered 20x 777-9 and 8x 777-8F; Cathay uses GE9X engines. These bolster widebody backlog amid geopolitical scrutiny.
How many 777 and 767 deliveries in March?
Boeing delivered 3x 777 and 2x 767 in March. This edges past Airbus in deliveries despite recovery complexities.
What replaces Delta's 767 fleet?
Delta plans A330neo to replace 58 Boeing 767s. Boeing 767 production ends in 2027 with 33 orders remaining.
What is the outlook for Boeing freighters?
Boeing falls behind Airbus in future freighters; 767 ends 2027 after 1,273 built. 21 Air eyes larger 777s for long-haul cargo.
What test flight is critical for 777X?
An April test flight could save or challenge Boeing's 777X program. It demonstrates key capabilities post-delays.
How do supply chain issues affect Boeing widebodies?
Aerospace aftermarket stocks rise amid Boeing delays; one Dreamliner retired after 13 hours. 777X navigates recovery as industrial icon.
What GE9X role in 777X?
GE9X engines power 777X for Korean and Cathay; commercial engines strength aids GE Aerospace. This supports certification progress.
FAA Phase4A Mar17/prod Apr'26/deliv'27/EIS'26-27; 777-9 brake 2500°F+ Edwards max TOW reject success; Korean20x777-9/8x777-8F/Cathay GE9X; Mar delvs3x777/2x767; Delta 767s(58) vs A330neo; 767 end'27(33 orders).