Cathay Pacific has publicly called out Boeing over significant delays in the delivery of its highly anticipated 777X aircraft, a move that could signal a seismic shift in the aviation industry. The airline, recently ranked among the top five globally, has expressed mounting frustration over repeated setbacks that have delayed the 777X’s rollout from an initial 2020 delivery to a now uncertain timeline that could stretch to 2026.

Boeing’s troubles with the 777X are well-documented, plagued by engine issues, certification hurdles, and a catastrophic stress test failure. Cathay Pacific’s Chief Operations and Service Delivery Officer, Alex McGowan, did not mince words, stating, “We want all our aircraft, and we’d like them to be delivered at the time that they’re promised.” This blunt declaration comes as the airline grapples with the urgent need to modernize its fleet and replace aging aircraft.

The stakes are high: Cathay has 21 777X jets on order, and with delays mounting, its entire fleet strategy hangs in the balance. Other major airlines like Emirates, Lufthansa, and Singapore Airlines are echoing similar frustrations, raising the alarm that Boeing’s inability to meet commitments could push them toward rival Airbus, which is seizing the opportunity to expand its market share with proven aircraft like the A350 and A330 NEO.

As Boeing struggles to stabilize its production amidst a backdrop of financial turmoil, the question looms: how much longer can airlines like Cathay Pacific afford to wait? If the 777X delays continue, Cathay may be forced to reconsider its orders entirely, a move that could send shockwaves through Boeing’s already fragile standing in the market. With every passing day, the pressure mounts, and the future of Boeing’s flagship aircraft hangs by a thread. Time is running out, and the aviation industry is watching closely.