United Snubs Early-Built Boeing 777X Aircraft Amid Certification Delays
United Airlines has dismissed rumors it's considering acquiring early-built Boeing 777X aircraft rejected by Emirates. The airline confirmed no interest in purchasing up to 20 jets assembled between 2019 and 2021.
The possibility of United taking over the aircraft gained attention due to certification delays affecting Boeing's flagship widebody program, which was originally expected to enter commercial service in 2020 but is now projected for 2027.
Boeing continues working toward 777X certification and has made progress with its flight test campaign, accumulating more than 4,800 flight test hours and over 1,700 test flights. However, the extended timeline has forced Boeing to modify aircraft built years ago, creating additional costs and uncertainty surrounding the earliest production frames.