FAA Grants Certification to Boeing's Troubled 737 Max 7

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted certification to Boeing's 737 Max 7, allowing it to enter passenger service after nearly a decade of delays and additional scrutiny.

The clearance follows years of review and new safety requirements from the FAA in response to two deadly crashes involving the Max 8 in 2018 and 2019 that killed 346 people.

To meet these requirements, Boeing completed 686 flight test hours over 441 flights and extensive ground testing. The FAA also addressed concerns from the National Transportation Safety Board and requirements set by the Aircraft Certification, Safety and Accountability Act, a law passed after the Max 8 crashes.

Airlines like Southwest Airlines expect to begin receiving the planes in the coming months to replace older aircraft on short- and medium-haul routes. The FAA's continued on-site presence signals ongoing oversight as Boeing works to rebuild its reputation and complete the 737 Max series.