SEATTLE- The Boeing 777-9 team, operating at Clinton Sherman Airport (CSM) in Oklahoma, battled fierce winds, torrential hail, and thunderstorms to complete critical braking certification tests for Boeing’s new widebody jet, operated by airlines like Emirates (EK) and Qatar Airways (QR).
Over 63 days, more than double the planned duration, the team, led by test director Madison Strauss, conducted rigorous tests on the first 777-9 flight test airplane, WH001, relocating to Lubbock Preston Smith Airport (LBB) in Texas when weather disrupted operations, ensuring the world’s largest twin-engine jet meets stringent safety standards.
Photo: Clément AlloingBoeing 777-9 Brake Certification
In early March, the 777-9 flight test team established operations at Clinton Sherman Airport (CSM) to evaluate brake and wheel performance under dry conditions.
The first test airplane, WH001, underwent hard braking maneuvers to define operational limits, generating data for regulatory approval.
Project pilot Heather Ross explained, “We test these extremes to know the airplane’s boundaries, ensuring it meets our expectations and those of the regulator.”
Testing required calm winds below 10 knots (12 mph) and dry runways, conditions often absent during the Oklahoma spring. Madison Strauss noted, “Our analysis team set tight wind limits to isolate brake performance from external factors.”
High winds frequently halted testing, prompting the team to fly to Lubbock (LBB) for crosswind evaluations. Severe storms, including hail risks, forced two evacuations to protect the aircraft, significantly extending the 63 day timeline, far beyond the initial 30 day forecast.
Photo: Huy Do | JetPhotosComplex Remote Operation
Remote testing demanded meticulous planning and a multi-disciplinary support network, both on-site and at Boeing’s Seattle hub, Boeing Field (BFI).
Flight test maintenance specialist Marlon Mercado highlighted logistical challenges: “Securing the right equipment, tools, and parts for 24 hour operations, split into two 12 hour shifts, is the toughest part.”
Instrumentation engineer Jeff Un added, “For every person here, just as many in Seattle collaborate to keep testing on track.” This integrated support ensured continuous progress despite unpredictable conditions.
The team’s adaptability shone when weather forced schedule changes. For instance, when high winds prevented brake tests, they seized opportunities for crosswind evaluations in Texas. This flexibility, combined with robust planning, enabled the team to maintain momentum.
Photo: BoeingRewarding Challenges
Despite time away from home, the team found motivation in their mission’s importance. Flight test engineer Kyle Ator described a “singular focus” that fostered unparalleled team unity, making contributions deeply rewarding.
Mercado valued overcoming unforeseen issues, stating, “I love solving challenges that arise on a remote.”
Strauss echoed, “I thrive in dynamic environments, working with the team and flying—this is why I love this job.”
Their resolve was evident in moments like waiting four hours at the runway’s end for winds to calm, securing a single test point.
Terry Beezhold, 777-9 vice president and general manager, praised their tenacity: “This team never gave up, fighting for every test point. I’m incredibly proud of their accomplishments.”
Photo: BoeingAdvancing the 777X Program
The 777X program continues with tests simulating ice formations on wings and evaluating wet runway braking.
The first flight of the 777X, powered by GE9X engines, occurred on January 25, 2020, marking a key milestone. Deliveries are slated for 2026, positioning the 777X to redefine long-haul travel.
The 777X family, including the 777-9 and 777-8, features innovative folding wingtips, reducing ground wingspan from 71.75 to 64.82 meters to fit standard airport gates.
This design enhances aerodynamic efficiency, improving lift to drag ratios and fuel efficiency during cruise.
The 777-9, at 76.72 meters, carries 426 passengers over 7,285 nautical miles (13,500 km), while the 777-8, at 69.79 meters, flies 8,730 nautical miles (16,170 km) with 384 passengers.
Photo: BoeingPassenger Comfort
The 777X cabin, inspired by the 787 Dreamliner, offers larger windows, a wider interior, quieter acoustics, and higher humidity for improved air quality, elevating passenger comfort.
Powered by GE9X engines, each with an 11 stage high pressure compressor delivering a 27:1 pressure ratio and an overall 60:1 ratio, the 777X achieves exceptional efficiency.
In 2019, the GE9X set a Guinness World Record, producing 134,300 pounds of thrust, surpassing the GE90-115B’s 127,900 pounds used in the Boeing 777-300ER. GE reports the GE9X consumes 10% less fuel than the GE90-115B.
MTU Aero Engines, a 4% shareholder in the GE9X program, develops the turbine center frame (TCF), a critical component enduring temperatures up to 1,000°C while channeling hot gas with minimal aerodynamic loss.
MTU’s expertise, honed on the GP7000 (Airbus A380) and GEnx (Boeing 787, 747-8), ensures the TCF’s reliability in the 777X’s advanced propulsion system.
Photo: Clément AlloingFuture Outlook
The 777X’s carbon fiber reinforced polymer wings enhance fuel efficiency, while its folding wingtips enable compatibility with “normal” airport gates, a practical innovation for operators like Emirates (EK).
The aircraft’s advanced design and performance, validated through rigorous testing, position it to transform aviation upon its 2026 debut.
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FAA Approves Boeing 777X New Phase 2D Noise Testing
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