Alaska Airlines Sees MAX 10 Certification on Fast Track Despite Boeing's Timeline

Alaska Airlines is expecting the Boeing 737 MAX 10 to receive US certification by the end of September, according to Chief Operating Officer Jason Berry. This timeline is more aggressive than Boeing's own estimates, but it fits with recent signals from the manufacturer and regulators.

The airline has built its growth plan around the aircraft and plans to receive its first MAX 10 in the spring. Alaska expects to take delivery of 22 aircraft in 2027 and another 30 in 2028, following a major order in January that included 105 MAX 10s and purchase rights for another 35.

Boeing's certification process has been delayed due to safety enhancements required by US legislation. These include an engine anti-ice system redesign and an enhanced Angle of Attack (eAoA) system. The manufacturer has completed 98% of the certification flight testing, but still needs to finish Development Assurance Review 4 and complete remaining system safety assessments.

The FAA's oversight of Boeing has intensified since the MAX crisis, and it is possible that this scrutiny may have contributed to the delay in certification. However, Alaska Airlines' expectation of a September type certificate suggests that the regulatory environment is becoming more favorable for the MAX 10.