Lufthansa’s first Boeing 777-9 completes maiden flight with full passenger cabin

Lufthansa’s first Boeing 777-9 has successfully completed its maiden flight, marking a major milestone in the long-delayed 777X programme.

Unlike earlier test aircraft fitted with temporary interiors, this aircraft features Lufthansa’s fully installed passenger cabin, including Business, Premium Economy and Economy seating, as well as in-flight entertainment systems. The aircraft will now enter a new phase of cabin and systems certification testing ahead of planned delivery in 2027.

The three-hour and 27-minute flight took place over the U.S. states of Washington and Oregon before landing at Paine Field. Boeing test pilots Ted Grady and Jake Miller led the flight.

According to Boeing, the aircraft performed as expected and will now undergo extensive ground and flight testing focused particularly on cabin systems and connectivity. The aircraft will later receive full Lufthansa exterior branding before entering service.

Boeing said the 777X programme has now accumulated more than 4,700 flight-test hours. The Lufthansa aircraft is the sixth 777-9 to fly and will help support certification work in addition to Boeing’s dedicated test fleet.

Lufthansa is one of the launch customers for the 777X family, which includes the passenger 777-9 and 777-8, as well as the Boeing 777-8 Freighter. Boeing says the program has secured more than 620 orders worldwide.