The first production Boeing 777-9 intended for Lufthansa completed its maiden flight on Thursday from Paine Field in Everett, Washington. The aircraft, equipped with a customer cabin interior, took off in the afternoon and remained airborne for approximately three hours, reaching an altitude of 39,000 feet before landing successfully.
This flight involved the first 777-9 built specifically for airline delivery, with Lufthansa positioned as the launch customer. The airline has orders for 20 of the aircraft. The test focused on production configuration rather than prototype trials, advancing the program after years of delays related to certification and technical issues.
Following this flight, the aircraft will enter testing phases for cabin systems, connectivity, and certification. Boeing completed critical brake system tests for the 777-9 in early April. Commercial entry into service remains scheduled no earlier than 2027.