Boeing engineers have completed detailed design and computer validation of the final aspects of the 787 wing fix, the company says. The the final parts are currently being fabricated for the side of body modification that has kept the 787 grounded.
Once complete, the parts will be shipped to Everett for installation aboard the static test airframe followed by full-scale validation. Installation is also currently progressing on the first 787, ZA001, as well.Boeing declined to say how long the final fittings would take to fabricate, but that they would be ready "soon".
The company will continue subcomponent testing of the wing fix through the full-scale validation process, but adds that the data collected on the reinforcement so far has provided positive results.
Programme sources tell FlightBlogger that Boeing engineers were troubleshooting detailed design issues with the four highest-load stringers at the aft of the wing as recently as ten days ago, but Boeing's detailed design completion appears to signal the design obstacles have been overcome.
The company has maintained that the first 787, currently being modified inside Paint Hangar 45-04 at Boeing's Everett facility, is on track for first flight by the close of 2009.
Source: Air Transport Intelligence news
