FAA Certifies Boeing's 737-7 After Decade-Long Review

Boeing has received an amended type certificate for its 737-7 aircraft from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) after nearly a decade-long review process.

The certification paves the way for commercial deliveries of the smallest 737 MAX variant to begin in early 2027. The FAA states that the approval reflects years of work to resolve technical issues and complete a thorough review of the airplane's design and safety analyses.

Boeing had to make significant updates to the flight-control software, flightcrew alerting system, and engine anti-ice system before receiving the certification. These changes were tied to requirements in the Aircraft Certification, Safety and Accountability Act and to NTSB recommendations following two 737-8 accidents in 2018 and 2019.

Mike Sinnett, Boeing's senior vice president of product strategy, product development and development programs, said that the certification effort has sharpened the company's understanding of current regulatory requirements. He noted that this will accelerate future airplane development with a renewed emphasis on human factors, safety, and quality.