Commercial Aviation
Boeing 777X Testing Resumes After Thrust Link Issues Fixed
The Boeing 777X, the latest generation of the Boeing 777 family, has faced numerous challenges since its announcement in 2013. However, the recent resolution of a critical issue with the aircraft’s engine thrust links has allowed Boeing to resume certification flights, marking a significant step toward its eventual service entry. This development is crucial for Boeing, which has been navigating a series of setbacks, including mechanical failures and labor strikes, to bring the 777X to market.
The 777X program has been under intense scrutiny due to its ambitious design and advanced technology, including the General Electric GE9X engine, the largest and most powerful commercial aircraft engine in the world. The aircraft’s certification process, which began with its first flight in 2020, has been one of the most rigorous in Boeing’s history, reflecting the company’s commitment to safety and innovation. The recent resolution of the thrust link issue is a testament to Boeing’s resilience and dedication to overcoming technical challenges.
As Boeing aims to certify the 777X by 2026, six years behind its initial planned service entry in 2020, the aviation industry is closely watching the program’s progress. The successful certification and entry into service of the 777X could have significant implications for the future of air travel, influencing airline fleets, ticket prices, and the overall passenger experience. This article delves into the technical challenges, recent developments, and broader industry context surrounding the Boeing 777X program.
Since its introduction, the 777X has faced a series of technical challenges during its testing phase. One of the most significant setbacks occurred in 2020 when an “uncommanded pitch event” caused the aircraft’s nose to pitch up without pilot input, delaying the program by years. More recently, thrust link failures were detected in mid-August 2024 during flight testing, which further stalled the 777X’s certification program. These delays were compounded by a seven-week labor strike in late 2024, which halted production across all of Boeing’s airplane programs.
The thrust link issue, which involves a structural component that transfers thrust between the engines and the airplane structure, was particularly concerning. Each engine includes two thrust links for redundancy, and the failure of this component on one of the test aircraft led to the grounding of the entire 777-9 test fleet. Subsequent inspections revealed similar issues on the other test aircraft, prompting Boeing to take proactive measures to address the problem. The company replaced the faulty components and captured any learnings from the process to ensure future reliability.
Despite these challenges, Boeing has made significant progress in resolving the thrust link issue, enabling the resumption of flight testing. The lead test aircraft, N779XY (known as WH003), has been pivotal in propulsion testing, using a production-standard GE Aerospace GE9X engine with an updated combustor liner and the latest engine control software. The aircraft has been used primarily to evaluate flight loads and performance of the auxiliary power unit, as well as avionics and engines. The resolution of the thrust link issue marks a major step toward the 777X’s eventual certification and service entry.
“The team is working to understand the root-cause corrective action, and once that is determined they will be able to understand the path forward, and any impact to scheduling.” – Brian West, Boeing CFO
Following the resolution of the thrust link issue, Boeing has resumed flight testing of the 777X, a critical step in the aircraft’s certification process. The 777X has accumulated over 1,100 flights and 3,200 flight hours as part of its certification process, one of the most rigorous testing regimes for any Boeing aircraft. The recent resumption of testing includes ensuring all employees are up-to-date on training and certifications, following the seven-week labor strike in late 2024.
One of the notable achievements in the 777X’s testing phase is its record-breaking 65-knot slow flight capabilities, a crucial element in its safety profile and certification process. This demonstration highlights the aircraft’s advanced flight control systems and its ability to operate safely at low speeds, a key requirement for FAA certification. The successful completion of this test phase is a significant milestone for the 777X program, bringing Boeing closer to its goal of certifying the aircraft by 2026. Boeing’s progress in resolving the thrust link issue and resuming flight testing aligns with the company’s plans to reset itself in 2025 following a year marred by safety incidents, labor strikes, and general turmoil. The 777X program is a key part of Boeing’s strategy to compete with other wide-body aircraft manufacturers, and the advancements in engine technology and flight control systems set a new standard for efficiency and safety in commercial aviation.
The resolution of the thrust link issue and the resumption of 777X test flights are significant within the broader context of the aviation industry. The rigorous testing and inspection processes undertaken by Boeing and mandated by the FAA reflect the industry’s commitment to passenger safety. This level of scrutiny can influence future design criteria for commercial airliners, setting a new benchmark for safety and reliability.
The successful certification and entry into service of the 777X could have a significant impact on airline fleets and travel options. The aircraft’s advanced technology, including the GE9X engine and its fuel efficiency, may influence ticket prices and the overall passenger experience, shaping the future of air travel. Airlines that incorporate the 777X into their fleets could benefit from reduced operating costs and enhanced passenger comfort, giving them a competitive edge in the market.
Moreover, the 777X program is a key part of Boeing’s strategy to compete with other wide-body aircraft manufacturers, such as Airbus. The advancements in engine technology and flight control systems set a new standard for efficiency and safety in commercial aviation, positioning Boeing as a leader in the industry. The successful certification and entry into service of the 777X could solidify Boeing’s position in the market and influence the future direction of aircraft design and innovation.
The Boeing 777X program has faced numerous challenges, from technical setbacks to labor strikes, but the recent resolution of the thrust link issue marks a significant step forward. Boeing’s commitment to safety and innovation is evident in the rigorous testing and inspection processes undertaken to ensure the aircraft’s reliability. The resumption of flight testing and the successful demonstration of record-breaking slow flight capabilities are key milestones in the 777X’s certification process.
As Boeing aims to certify the 777X by 2026, the aviation industry is closely watching the program’s progress. The successful certification and entry into service of the 777X could have significant implications for the future of air travel, influencing airline fleets, ticket prices, and the overall passenger experience. The advancements in engine technology and flight control systems set a new standard for efficiency and safety in commercial aviation, positioning Boeing as a leader in the industry. The 777X program is not just a testament to Boeing’s resilience but also a glimpse into the future of air travel.
Question: What is the Boeing 777X? Question: What caused the recent halt in 777X test flights? Question: When is Boeing aiming to certify the 777X? Sources: Aerospace Global News, Flying Magazine, FlightGlobal
Boeing 777X Testing Back on Track After Thrust Link Issues Resolved
Technical Challenges and Setbacks
Recent Developments and Achievements
Broader Industry Context
Conclusion
FAQ
Answer: The Boeing 777X is the latest generation of the Boeing 777 family, a wide-body airliner that includes two variants, the 777-8 and the 777-9. It is powered by the General Electric GE9X engine, the largest and most powerful commercial aircraft engine in the world.
Answer: The recent halt in 777X test flights was due to the discovery of a faulty thrust link, a structural component that transfers thrust between the engines and the airplane structure.
Answer: Boeing is aiming to certify the 777X by 2026, six years behind its initial planned service entry in 2020.
Airlines Strategy
Lufthansa Group and Air India Sign Joint Business Agreement in 2026
Lufthansa Group and Air India sign a Joint Business Agreement to improve connectivity and unify operations following the India-EU Free Trade Deal.
This article is based on an official press release from the Lufthansa Group.
On February 17, 2026, the Lufthansa Group and Air India formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a comprehensive Joint Business Agreement (JBA). The agreement, signed by Lufthansa Group CEO Carsten Spohr and Air India CEO Campbell Wilson, signals a major shift in the India-Europe aviation market. This strategic deepening of ties between the two Star Alliance partners aims to integrate their commercial operations, moving beyond traditional codesharing to offer a unified travel experience.
According to the official announcement, the partnership is explicitly designed to capitalize on the economic momentum generated by the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which was finalized in January 2026. By aligning their networks, the carriers intend to improve connectivity between India and the Lufthansa Group’s primary markets in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, and Italy.
The proposed JBA covers a wide array of carriers under both parent companies. On the Indian side, the agreement includes Air India and its low-cost subsidiary, Air India Express. The European contingent comprises Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, and ITA Airways.
Under the terms of the MoU, the airlines plan to coordinate flight schedules to minimize connection times and implement joint sales, marketing, and pricing strategies on key routes. The goal is to create a “metal-neutral” environment where passengers can book a single ticket across multiple carriers with consistent service standards.
“The partners aim to offer more connected and consistent experiences on a single ticket,” the Lufthansa Group stated in the press release regarding the operational goals of the agreement.
The timing of this agreement is closely linked to the ratification of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement earlier this year. Industry data indicates that the FTA has established the world’s largest free trade area, covering a bilateral goods trade volume of approximately €180 billion annually. The elimination of tariffs on aerospace parts and the expected surge in business travel have created a favorable environment for expanding capacity.
According to market reports, India is currently the fastest-growing aviation market globally and has become the second most important long-haul market for the Lufthansa Group, trailing only the United States. The partnership builds on a history of cooperation dating back to 2004, which accelerated significantly after Air India joined the Star Alliance in 2014.
While the press release highlights economic cooperation, AirPro News analyzes this move as a direct strategic counterweight to the “Middle East 3” (ME3) carriers, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad. For decades, these Gulf carriers have captured a significant majority of traffic on the India-Europe corridor by routing passengers through hubs in Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi. By forming a Joint Business Agreement, Lufthansa and Air India can effectively operate as a single entity. This allows them to optimize departure times, scheduling one morning flight and one evening flight rather than competing for the same slot, thereby offering a compelling direct alternative to the stopover models of Gulf competitors. With the India-Europe corridor seeing over 10 million annual passengers, reclaiming market share from third-country hubs is a primary commercial imperative.
A critical component of the JBA’s success relies on aligning the passenger experience, an area where Air India has historically lagged behind its European partners. However, under Tata Group ownership, Air India has aggressively modernized its fleet.
Recent developments cited in industry reports include:
While the MoU marks a significant milestone, the implementation of a Joint Business Agreement is subject to rigorous regulatory review. The airlines must secure anti-trust immunity and clearance from key bodies, including the Competition Commission of India (CCI) and the European Commission. Regulators typically scrutinize such agreements to ensure they do not create monopolies on specific non-stop routes, such as Frankfurt-Delhi.
What is a Joint Business Agreement (JBA)? When will the new joint operations begin? Does this affect frequent flyer programs?
Lufthansa Group and Air India Sign MoU for Joint Business Agreement Following EU-India Free Trade Deal
Scope of the Partnership
Strategic Context: The Free Trade Catalyst
AirPro News Analysis: Countering Gulf Dominance
Fleet Modernization and Product Alignment
Regulatory Outlook
Frequently Asked Questions
A JBA is a commercial arrangement where airlines coordinate schedules, pricing, and revenue sharing, effectively operating as a single entity on specific routes.
While the MoU was signed on February 17, 2026, full implementation depends on regulatory approvals from Indian and European authorities.
Both airlines are already members of the Star Alliance, allowing for reciprocal earning and redemption. The JBA is expected to further enhance loyalty benefits and availability.
Sources
Photo Credit: Lufthansa Group
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
BOC Aviation Renews $3.5B Credit Facility with Bank of China to 2031
BOC Aviation extends its $3.5 billion revolving credit facility with Bank of China to 2031, securing liquidity for aircraft investments and growth.
This article is based on an official press release from BOC Aviation.
BOC Aviation Limited has officially announced the renewal of its US$3.5 billion unsecured revolving credit facility (RCF) with its majority shareholder, the Bank of China. Confirmed on February 16, 2026, the transaction extends the maturity of the facility to February 13, 2031, providing the Singapore-based lessor with a five-year horizon of secured liquidity.
The renewal maintains the facility’s total value at the same level established during its 2020 expansion. According to the company, this move is designed to bolster financial flexibility and ensure consistent access to capital for aircraft investments, regardless of broader market cycles. The agreement underscores the continued financial backing BOC Aviation receives from its parent company, a critical differentiator in the competitive aircraft leasing sector.
The renewed agreement is an unsecured revolving credit facility, a structure that allows BOC Aviation to draw down, repay, and re-borrow funds as needed up to the US$3.5 billion limit. By extending the maturity date to 2031, the lessor secures a long-term funding runway to support its growth strategy.
Steven Townend, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of BOC Aviation, emphasized the strategic importance of this renewal in a statement released by the company. He highlighted the alignment between the lessor and its parent organization.
“This RCF extension reflects the confidence that Bank of China has in the future of our business and underscores the depth of our relationship with our major shareholder. The facility strengthens our financial flexibility and ensures our access to ample liquidity to support our aircraft investments across the cycle.”
, Steven Townend, CEO of BOC Aviation
The credit facility has grown significantly alongside BOC Aviation’s fleet over the last two decades. The company provided a timeline of the facility’s evolution, illustrating the increasing scale of support from the Bank of China:
This liquidity event occurs against a backdrop of significant operational activity for the lessor. As of December 31, 2025, BOC Aviation reported a total portfolio of 815 aircraft and engines, including owned, managed, and ordered assets. The company’s reach extends to 87 airlines across 46 countries and regions.
Data released regarding the full year 2025 indicates robust activity, with the company taking delivery of 51 new aircraft and executing a record 333 transactions. These transactions included 160 aircraft purchase commitments, signaling an aggressive growth posture that necessitates substantial available capital. In addition to the RCF renewal, BOC Aviation has recently moved to diversify its funding sources. In early February 2026, the company successfully priced US$500 million in senior unsecured notes. The combination of these notes and the renewed RCF provides a multi-layered capital structure to fund future acquisitions.
The renewal of this facility highlights a structural advantage for BOC Aviation compared to independent lessors. In a high-interest-rate environment or during periods of market volatility, the cost of funds is a primary determinant of a lessor’s profitability. The direct backing of a major state-owned bank allows BOC Aviation to secure large-scale liquidity that might be more expensive or difficult to arrange for competitors without similar parentage.
Furthermore, with supply chain constraints continuing to affect Airbus and Boeing deliveries in 2026, lessors with ready cash are better positioned to execute sale-and-leaseback (SLB) transactions with airlines desperate for liquidity. By locking in US$3.5 billion in revolving credit through 2031, BOC Aviation is effectively positioning itself to act as a liquidity provider to the airline industry, potentially acquiring assets at attractive valuations while manufacturers struggle to meet delivery targets.
BOC Aviation Secures US$3.5 Billion Facility Renewal with Bank of China
Transaction Details and Management Commentary
Historical Evolution of the Facility
Operational Context and Financial Position
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: BOC Aviation
Commercial Aviation
American Airlines Named Official Airline of Women in Aviation 2026 Conference
American Airlines becomes the first Official Airline of the 2026 Women in Aviation International conference, funding scholarships and sponsoring key events.
This article is based on an official press release from American Airlines.
As American Airlines prepares to celebrate its centennial anniversary in 2026, the carrier has announced a historic partnership with Women in Aviation International (WAI). According to an official announcement from the company, American Airlines has been named the first-ever “Official Airline” of the WAI annual conference.
The 37th Annual WAI Conference is scheduled to take place from March 19–21, 2026, at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Grapevine, Texas. The location is strategically significant, situated near the airline’s global headquarters in Fort Worth. This collaboration marks a shift in the airline’s engagement with the nonprofit, moving from general support to a titular sponsorship role during its 100th year of operation.
The partnership is framed as a central component of American Airlines’ 100th-anniversary celebrations. While the airline reflects on a century of connecting locations, this initiative highlights a forward-looking focus on workforce development and inclusion. By securing the “Official Airline” title, American aims to leverage its “hometown advantage” in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex to recruit and inspire the next generation of aviation professionals.
Cole Brown, Chief People Officer at American Airlines, emphasized the strategic importance of this alliance in a statement released by the company:
“At American, we believe building a culture where women and girls are represented, empowered and able to thrive as leaders is vital to the future of our industry. As we celebrate our centennial year, we’re proud to partner with WAI… to honor our legacy of innovation and reinforce our commitment to developing the future of the aviation workforce.”
Beyond the titular sponsorship, the press release details specific financial commitments aimed at reducing barriers to entry for women in aviation. American Airlines confirmed it will fund a total of eight scholarships for conference attendees. These awards are designed to address specific technical shortages in the industry.
According to the partnership details, the scholarships include:
In addition to direct financial aid, the airline will sponsor key events during the conference:
While the partnership represents a significant public relations milestone, it also highlights the ongoing disparity in gender representation within the cockpit. Industry data indicates that the global average for female airline pilots remains between 4% and 6%. American Airlines currently reports that approximately 5% of its pilots are women.
Comparatively, United Airlines leads major U.S. carriers with approximately 7.4% female pilot representation, while Delta Air Lines sits at roughly 5.3% and Southwest Airlines at 4.1%. The scholarships funded by this partnership target the “pipeline gap.” While women make up less than 20% of the total aviation workforce, they currently represent approximately 15% of student pilots. Initiatives like the WAI conference are critical for converting these students into career professionals. Lynda Coffman, CEO of Women in Aviation International, noted the significance of the airline’s involvement:
“As the Official Airline of this year’s annual conference, American has an important role in welcoming our estimated 5,000 WAI2026 attendees to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.”
Historically, American Airlines has played a role in breaking gender barriers; in 1973, it became the first major U.S. commercial carrier to hire a female pilot, Bonnie Tiburzi Caputo. This new partnership appears designed to reinforce that legacy as the carrier enters its second century.
American Airlines Becomes First “Official Airline” of Women in Aviation International Conference
A Centennial Commitment to Diversity
Scholarships and Career Initiatives
Financial Support Breakdown
Event Sponsorships
AirPro News Analysis: The Industry Context
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Photo Credit: American Airlines
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