Boeing Delays 777-9 Jet to 2027, Faces $5 Billion in Penalties

Boeing has once again delayed the entry into service of its flagship 777-9 widebody jet, pushing the first commercial deliveries to 2027, a full year later than planned. The company confirmed the new timeline this week, citing ongoing certification challenges that have slowed progress on the long-running 777X program and resulted in an additional $4.9 billion charge in the third quarter of 2025.

Originally scheduled for launch in 2026, the 777-9 — the largest twin-engine passenger jet in the world — is still awaiting type certification, which Boeing now expects to obtain in 2026. The latest delay adds to the estimated $15 billion in cumulative program costs and penalties, dealing another financial blow to the aerospace giant as it works to stabilize its commercial-aircraft business after years of turmoil.

“We’re disappointed by the schedule shift, but the aircraft has performed well in flight testing,” said CEO Kelly Ortberg. “Our priority is restoring trust and achieving full operational stability.”

Financial Impact and Market Momentum

Despite the setback, Boeing’s third-quarter 2025 results showed signs of recovery. Revenue rose 30 percent year-over-year to $23.27 billion, supported by higher aircraft deliveries and sustained demand for commercial jets. The company delivered 160 planes in the quarter — its strongest output since 2018 — compared with 116 a year earlier.

Boeing’s order backlog reached $636 billion, encompassing 5,900 commercial aircraft, including major 777X orders from Emirates (205 jets) and Qatar Airways (124 jets). Ortberg emphasized the aircraft’s long-term value proposition, describing it as “the world’s largest and most efficient twin-engine jet.”

The 777X is designed with advanced aerodynamics, composite wings, and GE9X engines that promise up to 10 percent better fuel efficiency than previous 777 models. Boeing expects the aircraft to become the backbone of many international fleets once it clears regulatory hurdles.

Certification, Safety, and Labor Headwinds

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) continues to play a central role in Boeing’s comeback. In September, the FAA restored Boeing’s authority to conduct final safety checks and certify 737 MAX jets — a privilege revoked after the 2018–2019 crashes that killed 346 people. This month, the FAA also authorized Boeing to increase 737 MAX production to 42 jets per month, up from 38, provided the company maintains safety compliance.

However, Boeing’s progress remains shadowed by labor unrest. About 3,200 machinists at defense plants in the St. Louis region have been on strike since August 4 over pay and retirement disputes. The walkout follows a larger strike last year involving 33,000 commercial-aircraft workers, further straining Boeing’s operations.

The union representing striking employees said this week, “If Boeing is serious about culture change and rebuilding its brand, it starts with respecting the people who make its success possible.”

Outlook

Boeing remains cash-flow positive, reporting $238 million in free cash flow last quarter, though analysts note this figure benefited from a delayed $700 million Justice Department payment linked to a potential settlement over the 737 MAX disasters.

The next 18 months will be pivotal for Boeing as it pushes the 777X through certification and aims to reassure regulators, investors, and airline customers that the long-delayed jet — once hailed as the future of long-haul travel — is finally ready for takeoff.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com