Boeing expects to have its first production 777X aircraft in the air by spring, according to a report from Reuters.
The news outlet said it obtained a company document showing 777X flights will take place in April.
The flights would mark a significant step forward for the long-delayed program. The 777X series was originally expected to enter commercial service in 2020, but technical problems have pushed that date back several times. More recently, company officials have attributed delays to the rigors of the FAA certification process.
Boeing is now targeting 2027 for deliveries to the series’ launch client, German carrier Lufthansa. The airline has ordered 27 777X aircraft, specifically the 777-9 and 777-8F freighter.
Other known customers include Emirates, Korean Air, Qatar Airways, and China Airlines.
Boeing is currently conducting fuel tests on 777X aircraft ordered by Lufthansa at Paine Field in Washington, Reuters added, and engine tests are expected to take place later this month.
The first 777X test flight took place in 2020.
