Boeing has scrapped one of the first 777-9 prototypes, designated WH007, built in 2019 but never flown. The aircraft spent about six years at Paine Field in an unfinished state, without engines and key equipment, and was dismantled in the summer of 2025.
According to The Air Current, the decision was driven by the high costs of adapting the prototype to the final configuration that would undergo mandatory certification. Boeing confirmed it abandoned completing the partially assembled 777-9, with the costs included in writedowns related to the 777X program totaling approximately $15 billion.
– The WH007 case shows the scale of the work still ahead for this project – added the American trade publication. Boeing must rework and prepare around 40 already produced 777X aircraft. This process is expected to take several years.
A costly unfinished prototype
The WH007 – a pre-production airframe built in 2019 – was intended to be part of the test fleet but never received engines or interior fittings. Its prolonged storage and eventual scrapping highlights the expensive consequences of Boeing’s decision to start series production before the type had been certified.
Boeing acknowledged that the writedown from the program has now reached about $15 billion, reflecting not only the scrapped prototype but also extensive rework needed on other partially built units. Analysts note that the company’s earlier push to accelerate deliveries backfired as regulatory hurdles forced repeated design changes.
Production before certification backfires
Boeing’s current difficulties stem from starting serial production before completing certification. The strategy was meant to speed up deliveries once regulatory approval was granted, but repeated delays led to an accumulation of aircraft requiring costly modifications.
– The decision was driven by the high costs of adapting the prototype to the final certification configuration – reported The Air Current. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has imposed additional safety requirements following two fatal crashes of the 737 MAX, leading to tougher scrutiny for all new Boeing models.
The 777X program, first unveiled in 2013, was originally scheduled to enter service in 2020. More than five years later, the timeline has slipped to 2027. The 40 built airframes now require retrofitting to meet the latest structural and avionics standards.
777x program delayed until 2027
The 777X is a new generation of wide-body, long-haul passenger aircraft developed as a successor to the 777 family. It features new GE9X engines, composite wings with folding tips, and design solutions aimed at reducing fuel consumption and operating costs. The first prototype flew on 25 January 2020, but the design has been repeatedly modified due to additional safety requirements from the FAA, problems discovered during testing, and feedback from customers. Entry into service is now expected in 2027.
Boeing officials have stressed that the company is focusing on completing certification rather than rushing to deliver, but the scrapping of WH007 underscores the financial and operational strain the program continues to face.
Źródło: WNP.PL, Fot. Ian Dewar Photography / Shutterstock
