The fifth Boeing 777-9 prototype, registered under N2007L and painted entirely white, successfully completed its first flight yesterday, marking another milestone in the certification program of the world’s largest twin-engine aircraft.
The aircraft, identified as WH286, took off from Everett Paine Field Airport (PAE/KPAE), where Boeing’s production facilities are located. According to reports, the jet will eventually be delivered to Singapore Airlines, one of the main customers for the model.
Between WH286 and the previous prototype WH004, Boeing has already produced at least 20 serial units of the 777-9, which remain in storage awaiting the completion of the certification program and the official start of deliveries to airlines worldwide.
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The fourth prototype WH004 made its first flight in September 2020, but was placed in long-term storage a year later. It was only reactivated in May 2025, when Boeing brought it back for passenger cabin and air conditioning system testing.
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Last week, Boeing received the green light from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to begin the fourth phase of the 777X certification campaign. This stage includes demonstration tests of onboard systems, which are crucial for the final validation of the aircraft.
With the resumption of flight testing and an expanded number of aircraft participating in the campaign, expectations are high for the long-awaited 777-9 to enter commercial service in the coming years, after multiple delays since the program’s launch.
Sources and images: Telegram @AviaCT, FAA, Boeing X @BoeingAirplanes. This content was created with AI assistance and reviewed by the editorial team.
