Boeing's Smallest 737 Max Finally Wins FAA Approval After Years of Delays

Boeing has finally secured FAA certification for its smallest 737 Max variant after a decade of delays. The Max 7, which began testing in 2018, seats between 135 to 160 passengers and offers about 10% more range than other Max variants.

The certification comes with conditions, as regulators required updates to the flight-control software and cockpit-alert systems, plus a redesigned engine anti-ice system to prevent overheating. Boeing Commercial Airplanes CEO Stephanie Pope said that this certification validates the rigor of their airplane's design and recognizes the determination and resilience of their 737 MAX development team.

The FAA approval opens up the path for deliveries, which could unlock cash from about 30 completed Max 7s already in inventory. This is a crucial step for Boeing as it has relied on higher Max and 787 deliveries to rebuild its cash flow. With this certification, attention now shifts to the larger Max 10 and long-delayed 777X.