First flight of 1st 787-9 tentatively scheduled for Sept. 14th

Boeing Photo

Program sources have confirmed to me that Boeing has tentatively scheduled the first flight of ZB001 (LN 126, N789EX) for September 14th.  This is all dependent on successful conclusion of ground testing activities including the gauntlet testing.

According to Guy Norris of Aviation Week, ZB001 is due to undergo gauntlet testing but shouldn't take as long as testing for ZA001, the first 787-8 before that aircraft's first flight in December 2009. It does appear that Boeing may have been waiting for certification of Trent 1000 package C engines which was just been given by EASA (no word yet on FAA certification).