The first production Boeing 777-9 has officially taken to the skies. The aircraft departed from Everett Paine Field (PAE) on May 7, 2026, marking a significant step forward for the 777X program.
Data from Flightradar24 indicates the jet, currently registered as BOE128, conducted a three-hour test flight, reaching an altitude of 39,000 feet before returning to the facility. The aircraft is slated for delivery to Lufthansa, the launch customer for the widebody type.
While Lufthansa has placed an order for 20 of the 777-9 aircraft, the program has faced several years of delays. The airline currently anticipates the first delivery in 2027. Lufthansa Group leadership has noted that the carrier will continue to utilize its older A340-300 fleet should further scheduling adjustments occur.
Recent development efforts for the 777X have focused heavily on certification requirements. In early April, Boeing performed maximum brake energy testing, which involved a high-speed aborted takeoff to ensure the safety systems functioned as designed. The test successfully triggered the aircraft’s fuse plugs, a safety feature that deflates the tires during extreme heat events.