Certification nears for Boeing 737 MAX 10

The certification of the Boeing 737 MAX 10 may happen as early as the week of October 19, according to reports from Reuters and Bloomberg. This would mark a significant milestone for Boeing, which has faced years of delays and increased regulatory scrutiny.

High stakes for Boeing

The 737 MAX 10 is a crucial aircraft for Boeing, with nearly 1,500 units ordered by airlines. Delays in its certification have allowed competitors like the Airbus A321neo to gain an advantage in the market. The MAX 10 is the largest version of Boeing’s single-aisle aircraft and is expected to play a key role in the company’s recovery.

Safety review completed

On October 16, Boeing completed a safety review conducted by the Federal Aviation Administration’s Type Certification Board. This board includes FAA officials and is responsible for overseeing the final stages of certification. The successful completion of this review is a critical step toward final approval.

Software issue resolved

A software problem had previously delayed certification. In September, the FAA paused approval due to a defect in the flight computer software of the 737 MAX family. However, experts later determined the issue did not pose a safety risk, removing a key obstacle for certification.

Testing program nearing completion

Boeing’s testing program for the MAX 10 has reached an advanced stage. The last planned certification flight was conducted in July, after 976 flights and over 2,060 hours of testing. The focus has now shifted to final documentation submitted to the FAA.

Delays due to past incidents

The certification process has been delayed multiple times since Boeing initially planned to deliver the MAX 10 in 2020. This delay occurred amid increased scrutiny following two fatal crashes of the 737 MAX 8 in 2018 and 2019. Additional issues, such as a door plug detachment in 2024 and an engine de-icing problem in 2023, further delayed the process.

Certification a major regulatory step

If certified, the MAX 10 would be a major regulatory achievement for Boeing. The certification would allow the company to begin delivering the aircraft in 2027. This is especially important as nearly 1,500 units have already been ordered, representing a significant portion of the 737 MAX family’s remaining order book.

Major airlines await the MAX 10

Several major airlines, including United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Ryanair, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines, have ordered the MAX 10. These carriers are looking to the aircraft to support the growth and renewal of their single-aisle fleets, particularly in high-demand routes.

Competing with Airbus

The MAX 10 is designed to hold up to 230 passengers and has a range of 3,100 nautical miles, making it a direct competitor to the Airbus A321neo. Boeing sees the MAX 10 as essential for regaining market share in the large single-aisle aircraft segment.

Looking ahead to the 777X

While certification of the MAX 10 would be a major win, Boeing still faces the challenge of certifying the long-haul 777X, expected to be approved in 2027. This will be another key step in the company’s broader recovery and future product lineup.