Boeing Secures Amended Type Certificate for 737 Max 7 After Years-Long Struggle
Boeing has finally secured an amended type certificate for its 737 Max 7 from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a significant milestone in the company's turnaround plan and a long-sought victory after years of struggle.
The FAA signed the documents granting Boeing the certification on August 3, 2026. Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, addressed the significance of this moment to employees:
'This pivotal certification clears the way for us to deliver the airplane and begin meeting the commitments to our customers,' Pope said.
The Max 7 is considered a niche product with above-average range and performance in 'high and dry' climates, which could broaden its market appeal. The airframer originally anticipated certifying and delivering the first Max 7s to customers in 2019 but was delayed due to intense FAA scrutiny and workforce culture dysfunction.
Boeing has also introduced an Enhanced Angle of Attack System (AoA) on the Max 10, which will be equipped on all new Max jets and retrofits will begin on aircraft already in service. The Max 7 will be assembled at Boeing's primary 737 factory in Renton, while deliveries are likely to begin sometime early next year.