Lufthansa is still expecting to take delivery of its first Boeing 777X aircraft next year. The news comes after Emirates commented that they now don't expect the first Boeing 777X until 2022. The first 777X delivery was to take place this summer. However, delays meant the aircraft didn't make its first flight until January this year.

The Boeing 777X is hotly anticipated as the world's next new aircraft type. The two models being produced are based on the original 777 design with some modifications, such as folding wingtips. Lufthansa is to be the aircraft's launch customer.

2021 delivery still targeted

Lufthansa is reportedly still expecting its first Boeing 777X to be delivered during 2021. However, the delivery of the first aircraft maybe later than had initially been planned according to Aerotelegraph.

A Boeing spokesperson told Simple Flying,

"Boeing is working closely with our customers across the business as they continue to adapt to the evolving COVID-19 situation. We continue to execute our robust test program for the 777-9, which began flight testing in January. As we prepare the third airplane for flight in the coming weeks, we remain pleased with the progress we are making and with the airplane, which will deliver the efficiency and passenger experience our customers expect."

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However, Emirates is now expecting a delay in its first 777X delivery. The United Arab Emirates Carrier is second in line to receive a Boeing 777-9 behind Lufthansa. Indeed, its first aircraft has already been assembled at the fuselage level. Emirates has 115 unfilled Boeing 777X orders, with the first being placed back in July 2014.

A Lufthansa spokesperson confirmed to Simple Flying that as things stand, the first 777X delivery is on course for the beginning of 2021. The spokesperson said,

"Regarding the delivery of the Boeing 777X to Lufthansa, We are in constant contact with Boeing and of course we are adapting to the new situation, as the first delivery has been delayed to beginning of 2021."

What to expect from Lufthansa's first 777X?

Lufthansa's first Boeing 777-9 is being hotly anticipated by fans of the airline. Like British Airways did with the Airbus A350, Lufthansa is due to debut its brand new business class cabin on these new aircraft. Additionally, again similar to the BA A350, these aircraft won't come with a first-class cabin, at least not initially.

According to the Boeing order book as of May 31st, Lufthansa has placed orders for 20 Boeing 777-9 aircraft. The -9 is the larger member of the 777X family, with a slightly smaller -8 to follow in due course.

The 777-9 is known for its unique feature among commercial passenger aircraft. It has folding wingtips. This allows the plane to increase its wingspan when they are lowered before take-off. However, upon landing, they fold up to ensure that the aircraft's footprint isn't bigger than the current 777 models. Interestingly, the Boeing 777 was initially pitched with folding wingtips, although the idea never 'took off' due to a lack of customer demand.

The aircraft is also equipped with the world's largest commercial engine, the GE9X. This has a diameter greater than the Boeing 737's fuselage.

When do you think that Lufthansa will receive its first Boeing 777-9 aircraft? Let us know what you think and why in the comments!