Boeing grounds 777X test fleet after failure of key engine mounting structure

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Boeing has sidelined its 777X test fleet after a routine post-flight inspection revealed the failure of a crucial piece of structure that mounts the engine to the aircraft. A similar finding was made on its two other active test aircraft, prompting a halt in test flying for the massive Boeing twin-engine jetliner, according to two people familiar with the issue.

Boeing confirmed the discovery and its impact on flight testing, telling The Air Current in an e-mailed statement, “During scheduled maintenance, we identified a component that did not perform as designed. Our team is replacing the part and capturing any learnings from the component and will resume flight testing when ready.”

Related: Boeing begins 777X certification flight trials with FAA

The two people familiar with the severed thrust link said the issue was discovered on Boeing’s third 777-9 test aircraft, WH003, after it completed a five-hour 31-minute flight on Aug. 16 from Kona Airport in Hawaii. Subsequent inspections on other 777-9 test aircraft back on the mainland revealed cracks in the thrust link structure.