United Airlines Rejects Initial Batch of Boeing 777-9 Aircraft

United Airlines has refused to purchase Boeing's initial batch of 777-9 aircraft, which were manufactured between 2019 and 2021. According to a report by The Air Current, this refers to nearly 20 aircraft assembled before the completion of the certification process.

The airline's decision comes after Emirates had previously rejected these aircraft due to the significant amount of additional work required to bring them up to the final serial configuration.

Experts believe that years of storage outdoors or in warehouses could negatively impact the operational lifespan of these aircraft, as noted by Emirates President Tim Clark, who joked that they could only be used to make tin cans.

United Airlines has not completely abandoned the Boeing 777X program and may return to purchasing the aircraft once it undergoes full certification and final serial deliveries begin.