The first production Boeing 777-9 destined for Lufthansa completed its maiden test flight on May 7, 2026. This marked the most significant milestone yet for a programme that is now more than five years behind its original schedule.
The aircraft, identified as WH128 with serial number 1781 and registration N20080, departed from Paine Field Airport in Everett, Washington, and landed shortly before 5:00 PM local time after a multi-hour evaluation flight.
As per the reprots of Boeing Newsroom, the flight lasted approximately three hours, during which the aircraft climbed to a cruising altitude of 39,000 feet and reached a top speed of 492 knots. Lufthansa remains the programme's launch customer. Delivery is now targeted for early 2027.
Unlike a typical test interior, the aircraft features Lufthansa's fully outfitted passenger cabin, from premium and economy seats to in-flight entertainment systems.
Captain Ted Grady and Captain Jake Miller took to the skies in a three-hour, 27-minute flight that covered a typical route over Washington and Oregon, testing systems and structures on the aircraft.
In the Boeing press release, Chief Pilot Grady confirmed that the airplane performed as they'd expected, and that the 777-9 continues to handle beautifully.
The 777-9 is the bigger of the two 777X variants at 71.8 metres in span. It is the widest of any commercial jet, and carries up to 426 passengers in a standard two-class configuration.
As part of its long-haul fleet modernisation program, Lufthansa has confirmed firm orders for at least 20 Boeing 777-9s. The carrier will primarily operate the jet from Frankfurt Airport, where it has the majority of its premium long-haul operations.
The plane is set to replace older Boeing 747-400s that are averaging over 26 years of service.
The programme for the 777X has passed a string of key gates in quick succession.
In the Q1 2026 SEC filing, Boeing says it's received a certification flight test action item from the FAA for the Type Inspection Authorization 4a, which marks the final step in certification flight testing, and the first delivery is expected in 2027.
The 777X order book is more than 480 aircraft, including a 205-strong commitment from Emirates. Lufthansa's order for 20 aircraft is relatively low but highly symbolic.
Its introduction into service will set an example for Boeing to follow for all other customers who have yet to order. The first flight on May 7 has no end. However, it is the most promising yet, an indicator that the end is in sight after a programme that has been plagued by delays.
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