Boeing's Smallest MAX Jet Cleared for Takeoff After Eight-Year Wait
Boeing's smallest jet, the 737-7, has finally received certification from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) after a long and grueling process that spanned over eight years.
The certification was granted on August 3, clearing the way for commercial service and delivery of the aircraft to launch customer Southwest Airlines.
The 737-7 is the smallest member of the 737 MAX family, seating 135-160 passengers in two classes, and offers up to 10% more range than its bigger siblings. It also burns about 20% less fuel and is half as loud as the jets it replaces.
The certification was delayed due to intense post-crash scrutiny of the entire MAX program and the FAA's tougher, slower certification regime. The aircraft underwent over 1,000 hours of flight and ground testing, plus exhaustive safety and human-factors reviews.