Boeing has suspended structural testing of the 777X, after a door reportedly blew off the fuselage.
According to Charlie Harger from KOMO News, the aircraft was undergoing its final stages of structural testing when the malfunction occurred.
Sources told Harger that the door came flying off when Boeing was testing the maximum cabin pressure, whilst the aircraft was positioned in its test rig.
Attending the tests was the Federal Aviation Administration, ready to tick the aircraft off for structural testing, as well as engineers involved in the process.
Sources in contact with Harger state said that the audience immediately fell silent when the component failed.
Although the aircraft was pushed far above operating limits, failing to hold onto a door is not something to lightly just shrug off.
No announcement has been made as to what caused the door to blow off, however an investigation has been opened by Boeing to determine if this was a one off or if there is a design flaw.
Boeing contacted KOMO News stating that all protocols were followed during the testing process and no injuries occurred as a result of the incident.
This incident adds to the pressure surrounding Boeing as they battle to get the 737 MAX flying again, as well as the present 777X program delays due to General Electric GE9X engine issues.
First flight was scheduled to occur this year however, due to the resource shift and delays, this has been pushed to early next year.
Boeing is targeting an aggressive flight test schedule to ensure that the aircraft is certified and ready to be delivered by their goal of fourth quarter 2020.
Most airlines remain sceptical, with Lufthansa preparing for a delayed entry into service and Emirates expressing great concern over delivery times and engine issues.
At this time, Boeing’s priorities are getting the 737 MAX safely back into service and progressing with the 777X program at an acceptable rate.
Any additional setbacks would be seen as financially damaging for Boeing and the airlines involved.