Boeing has announced the completion of final gauntlet testing for its first 747-8 Intercontinental jetliner, a crucial step toward the aircraft’s first flight.
Finishing an extensive two-day period of evaluation on late Sunday (March 13), the gauntlet test simulated flight conditions to test systems and ensure flight readiness.
First flight of the 747-8I will occur after final flight readiness reviews, receipt of documentation from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and taxi testing. Boeing advises that both taxi testing and first flight will be subject to weather conditions. The announcement of final gauntlet testing follows the completion of 747-8 initial engine runs on March 10.
Boeing has posted a video of the extensive gauntlet test via this link.
