Boeing Clears Regulatory Hurdle for Long-Range 737-7 Jet
Boeing has secured regulatory approval for its long-range 737-7 jet after the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) granted an amended type certificate, clearing the way for commercial service. The certification follows a multi-year development and testing program that began in 2018.
The FAA's approval allows Boeing to begin preparations for deliveries of the smallest and longest-range aircraft in the 737 MAX family, with Southwest Airlines set to receive the first unit. The company has completed over 1,000 hours of flight and ground testing alongside extensive safety analysis and regulatory reviews.
The 737-7 is designed to carry between 135 and 160 passengers in a two-class configuration and offers a range of up to 3,800 nautical miles (7,040 kilometers), giving airlines greater flexibility on longer routes typically served by larger aircraft.