787 flight testing resumes, but extent of delays unclear

A file image of 787 ZA004 at Colorado Springs Airport for altitude tests.

Boeing has resumed 787 flight testing after fitting test aircraft ZA004 with interim updated power distribution system software, but says an updated program schedule won’t be known until January.

“Initially, we will resume a series of Boeing tests that remain to be completed in the flight test program,” said Scott Fancher, vice president and general manager of the 787 program. “That testing will be followed later by a resumption of certification testing.”

Boeing said ZA004’s December 23 flight was to include an intentional deployment of the ram air turbine.

“As we return to flight test and determine the pace of that activity, we remain focused on developing a new program schedule,” Fancher said. “We expect to complete our assessment of the program schedule in January.”

The news of flight test resumption comes after an indepth report on the Seattle Times which claims that 787 first deliveries could be delayed by a further three to six months.