Boeing has announced the suspension of load testing for its 777X aircraft after a cargo door exploded outwards during a high-pressure ground stress test, as reported in the Seattle Times. The ‘aircraft’ in question was a static test model used for ground testing and is not intended for flight.
In a statement, Boeing spokesman Paul Bergman said: “During final load testing on the 777X static test airplane, the team encountered an issue that required suspension of the test,” adding that “Overall testing is continuing.” The blown cargo door occurred during a final testing phase that has to be passed in order for the aircraft to obtain certification from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Such testing involves subjecting aircraft to stresses and loads that are well in excess of those likely to be encountered during normal flight conditions. This is a second setback to the timing of the 777X program after problems with the General Electric Co engine saw first flights now delayed until 2020.
According to Boeing, the 777X will be the largest and most efficient twin-engine jet available. The twin-aisle wide-body aircraft will have two models, the 777-8 which can carry 384 passengers in a two-class configuration, and the 777-9 which can carry 426 passengers in a two-class configuration.
