Boeing’s ‘Unmatched’ New Jets Grounded As New Structural Failure Takes Off

Boeing grounded its new 777X jets after a post-test flight inspection revealed a structural problem that could further threaten the company’s reputation barely two weeks into the company’s new helmsman’s tenure, according to reports.

Boeing discovered the thrust link structure of its third 777-9 test airplane had come off after the jet completed a five-hour-31-minute test flight from Kona Airport in Hawaii Aug. 16, The Air Current reported Monday. The structure helps mount an aircraft engine to the aircraft.

“During scheduled maintenance, we identified a component that did not perform as designed,” Boeing reportedly told The Air Current. “Our team is replacing the part and capturing any learnings from the component and will resume flight testing when ready.”

The incident came to light barely two weeks after Boeing’s new President and Chief Executive Officer Kelly Ortberg’s assumed office Aug. 8.

Boeing’s first two 777-9 test jets also had cracks in the crucial structure, the company subsequently found, according to the outlet.

The discoveries and resultant halt to test flights have set back the launch of the new 777X airplanes, which the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had cleared for test flights, the outlet separately reported.

Boeing’s shares — which opened Monday at $180.04 — fell Tuesday to $172.10, the company’s stock information revealed.