United is facing more delays for its long-awaited Boeing 737 MAX 10, the largest variant of the single-aisle jet. The aircraft is still pending approval from the Federal Aviation Administration.
Speaking to Reuters, United’s chief commercial officer, Andrew Nocella, said Tuesday that the carrier may not receive the MAX 10 until 2027 or 2028. The type was already removed from the airline’s fleet plan.
‘More Bullish’
Earlier this year, United leadership expressed optimism on the MAX 10, despite the ongoing delays.
“ With Boeing starting to make some real progress in improving their business, we’re becoming more bullish on the MAX 10,” United’s chief financial officer, Mike Leskinen, said during an earnings call.
As it awaits the MAX 10, United says it remains pleased with the smaller MAX 9, calling it a “great aircraft.” The airline has nearly 100 MAX 9 aircraft in its fleet, with more planned.
Delta also has firm orders for the 737 MAX 10, which it doesn’t expect until at least 2026.
The Chicago-based carrier ordered the MAX 10 variant in 2017 with plans for 100 aircraft. At the time, Boeing had planned to deliver the first aircraft in late 2020.
