Originally Posted by
switch_on_lofty
Wonder if it's a short term cost deferral mechanism too.
How many designers & engineers are looking at this blank sheet? If not many; money is saved for the current balance sheet.
I think this is pretty close. The MAX fiasco has Boeing bleeding money, and with over 400
built MAX aircraft sitting around that can't be delivered, that's a massive hit to cash flow. Plus all the expenses associated with getting the 777X flight tested, certified and in-service, there is a whole lot of money going out, with not much coming in. Boeing has already borrowed over $6 Billion to cover short term cash, and it's looking to borrow several Billion more.
So I'd put this in along with the 777-8X - delayed to save money until the MAX is straightened out and income once again starts exceeding spending.