Key Points:
  • The FAA has authorized Boeing to start flight tests of the 737 MAX 10, a crucial phase in the aircraft’s certification process.

  • Boeing’s VP Mike Fleming highlights the significance of this development for the 737 MAX 10, the largest variant in the MAX family.

  • The certification of the 737 MAX 7 and 10 has experienced delays due to the FAA's heightened safety protocols post the MAX crashes, with the MAX 10 expected to enter service by 2025.


FAA Initiates Flight Tests for Boeing 737 MAX 10

Boeing's 737 MAX 10 inches closer to joining the aviation market with the FAA's approval for flight tests, a crucial phase in the aircraft's certification. Despite the delays induced by enhanced safety measures and rigorous testing protocols, Boeing and the FAA are making steady progress towards ensuring the 737 MAX 10 meets the highest safety standards before its entry into passenger service.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has given Boeing the green light to commence flight tests for its 737 MAX 10 jetliner, marking a pivotal step in the aircraft's journey towards certification. This development allows FAA pilots to collect essential flight data, a critical component in the certification process of the new airplane.

Boeing Celebrates Milestone in 737 MAX Family

In an internal communication, Boeing Vice President Mike Fleming, who oversees the company's commercial aircraft development programs, expressed enthusiasm over this progress. Fleming emphasized the importance of this milestone in the certification of the 737 MAX 10, the largest member of the 737 MAX series, and its anticipated introduction to global passenger service.

Certification Process Under Stricter Safety Standards

The journey towards certification for the last two members of the 737 MAX family - the MAX 7 and MAX 10 - has faced significant delays. This is largely due to the FAA's implementation of more stringent testing standards, a response to legislative mandates following the tragic crashes involving the MAX series that resulted in 346 fatalities. The MAX 7 is expected to receive certification shortly, within a month or two. However, the 737 MAX 10, despite the commencement of FAA flight tests, is projected to achieve certification only by late 2024, with its entry into service anticipated in 2025.