Boeing’s 737 MAX 10 has cleared another hurdle in its turbulent certification program. According to a Wednesday internal memo shared by FlightGlobal, the aerospace giant received a so-called ‘type inspection authorization’ from the FAA.
The 737 MAX 10 is the largest variant of the 737 MAX family, and it is designed for more high-capacity routes. The aircraft has a maximum capacity of 230 passengers and a range of 3,300 nautical miles.
With 963 of the type on order, Boeing expects to deliver the first 737 MAX 10 in 2024. According to FlightGlobal, Alaska, Delta, Ryanair, United, and Vietjet all have planned orders for the stretched aircraft. The aircraft made its first test flight in June of 2021.
The FAA’s issuance of the type inspection authorization allows Boeing to begin certification flight testing. Pilots from the agency will also be able to participate in and observe flight testing activities, the internal memo stated.
Long Delays in Certification
This step towards fully certifying the aircraft comes just three years after two deadly 737 MAX accidents, prompting a global grounding of the aircraft. Following months of continued scrutiny and supply chain woes, Boeing’s 737 MAX 10 along with the smaller 737 MAX 7 variants have yet to be fully certified by regulators.
Once the final type certificate is issued, Boeing will be able to begin delivering the aircraft to airlines. Some industry sources expect that the 737 MAX 10’s initial service entry could slip into 2025, per The Seattle Times.
The 737 MAX 10 is a key part of Boeing’s plans to regain market share in the single-aisle aircraft market. The aircraft is expected to compete with Airbus’ A321neo, which is the current bestselling single-aisle aircraft in the world.
