FAA grants approval for Boeing's smallest 737 Max model, airlines face scheduling lag
The Federal Aviation Administration has approved the Boeing 737 Max 7, the smallest variant of the Max family, though airlines may need several months before adding it to their timetables.
The U.S. aviation regulator has finally cleared Boeing's 737 Max 7, the most compact member of the Max series, ending a decade-long certification saga. The delay stemmed from fatal accidents involving the Max 8, a redesign of the engine anti-icing system, and other safety and manufacturing concerns. Airlines such as Southwest had intended to introduce the model before COVID-19 disrupted travel, but the prolonged approval process stalled those plans.
Although carriers can now schedule the aircraft, practical deployment may not occur for several months as they adjust route planning and crew training. Southwest described the certification as a crucial move toward updating its 737 fleet with newer interiors and better fuel efficiency. Boeing continues to seek clearance for the Max 10, the line's largest variant, as well as its flagship 777X.
Why it matters
Certification allows airlines to eventually use a more fuel-efficient, smaller jet, impacting travel costs and fleet modernization.
In this story