Boeing’s 777-9 program completed a maximum brake energy test at Edwards Air Force Base, simulating a high-demand rejected takeoff scenario.
The aircraft reached its maximum takeoff weight of 775,000 pounds and accelerated to approximately 190 knots before pilots aborted the takeoff. Braking alone stopped the plane, without thrust reversers, using brakes machined to simulate fully worn conditions.
The braking system produced over a billion foot-pounds of torque, with temperatures surpassing 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit. This heat melted the wheels’ fuse plugs, releasing tire air pressure as designed.
These conditions exceed normal airline operations but meet certification standards set by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration to verify safety margins. Emergency crews waited five minutes before intervening, mimicking real-world response times, then cooled the brakes and wheels.
The test supports Boeing’s ongoing certification efforts with the FAA, which include extensive validation of all aircraft systems.