New Boeing finally gets going, 15 years after debut
The 737-7 is the smallest of its type, yet it has the longest range
Boeing marked a significant milestone on Tuesday by receiving FAA certification for its latest passenger aircraft, the 737-7 MAX. This achievement comes 15 years after the company first announced the type and seven years after the initial model's production. The US Federal Aviation Administration's decision to certify the plane reflects years of work to address complex technical issues and thoroughly review the aircraft's design and safety analyses.
Several problems, including faulty software, plagued the 737-7, as did those of its sibling, the 737-8 MAX, which experienced fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019. The 737-7's unusual design, capable of carrying 172 passengers up to 3,850 nautical miles, sets it apart as the smallest model in the 737 family with the longest range. Boeing initially lacked interest in the 737-7 due to limited demand, with only Southwest Airlines expressing interest.
The aircraft's compact size also positions it as a potential competitor to Airbus and Embraer in the regional jet market. With Allegiant airline signing on to purchase the model in 2022, Boeing is now prepared to sell the 737-7 and may ramp up production, having previously built 129 737s in the last quarter.
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