FAA Clears Boeing's 737 MAX 7 for Flight After Years-Long Review

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted approval to Boeing's 737 MAX 7, marking a significant milestone for the planemaker. The certification process was tougher than usual due to two fatal crashes of the MAX 8 in 2018 and 2019.

Since then, Boeing has faced increased scrutiny of its production and quality systems, particularly after a mid-air cabin panel blowout on an Alaska Airlines MAX 9 in January 2024. However, this latest approval is seen as a positive step for the company.

The 737 MAX 7 is the smallest version of Boeing's best-selling airplane, and Southwest Airlines is the first customer to take delivery of it.