Boeing’s fifth 777-9X made its first flight Tuesday, launching out of Seattle Paine Field International Airport (KPAE) in Everett, Washington, just north of Seattle.
According to the Seattle Times, the aircraft lifted off at approximately 11 a.m. PDT. It is classified as a production airplane, with its primary function being to determine if certain features of the aircraft work as expected, such as climbs, turns, and descents, landing gear raising and lowering, and if it can withstand a lightning strike without any damage to critical aircraft systems.
Boeing’s 777-9 is part of the 777X line. The company says the twin-engine aircraft is designed to be more fuel-efficient than other widebody aircraft.
The 777-9 features foldable wings so it can fit into more airports, and it is powered by the GE9X, the largest powerplant made by GE Aviation. The engine is designed to be quieter and more efficient than others on the market and have fewer emissions as part of its green appeal.
“The 777X will deliver 10 percent lower fuel use and emissions and 10 percent lower operating costs than the competition,” Boeing said in a news release. “The first flight of a fifth 777-9 has been successfully completed, marking an important milestone of progress in the 777-9’s journey to certification.”
