US FAA Certifies Boeing 737 MAX 10, Clearing Way for Deliveries
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted final approval to Boeing's long-delayed 737 MAX 10 aircraft, paving the way for the American aerospace manufacturer to begin deliveries in the coming months.
The certification marks an important milestone for Boeing, which has faced years of delays in bringing the largest version of its best-selling 737 aircraft family to market.
Deliveries Expected in the Coming Months
Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said deliveries of the MAX 10 are expected to begin in the coming months. The aircraft offers greater passenger capacity and longer range than some smaller variants in the 737 MAX family.
According to aviation analytics consultancy IBA, airlines have ordered more than 1,550 MAX 10 aircraft. The model accounts for approximately 31 per cent of Boeing's outstanding 737 order backlog.
Aircraft Can Carry Up to 230 Passengers
The Boeing 737 MAX 10 is the largest aircraft in the 737 MAX family. It can accommodate up to 230 passengers, compared with up to 195 on the MAX 9 and 160 on the MAX 7.
Major customers for the MAX 10 include United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Ryanair, Delta Air Lines and American Airlines. The aircraft is expected to support airlines seeking greater capacity on single-aisle routes.
Certification Delays and Safety Improvements
The MAX 10's certification process was delayed for several years. Boeing initially planned to begin deliveries in 2020, but technical issues and additional regulatory reviews pushed back the timeline.
Following two fatal 737 MAX 8 crashes in 2018 and 2019, the FAA introduced more stringent certification requirements. Boeing has also faced increased scrutiny of its manufacturing and quality-control systems.
The regulator required significant improvements to the MAX 10, including updates to the flight-control system and an enhanced angle-of-attack sensor. These improvements are expected to be applied to the existing fleet in the coming years.
Importance for Boeing's Recovery
Boeing expects the MAX 10 to play an important role in its financial recovery and future cash flow. However, delays in certification have given European rival Airbus an opportunity to strengthen the position of its A321neo in the large single-aisle aircraft market.
Boeing continues to work on certification of its 777-9 aircraft, with deliveries expected to begin in 2027, according to the company.
The FAA's approval of the 737 MAX 10 represents a significant step forward for Boeing, although the company must now move towards the planned delivery phase.
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