Boeing Receives FAA Certification for the 737-7 MAX

Boeing has reported that the 737-7, the smallest MAX Family member, has received FAA certification, clearing the way for entry into commercial service.

Boeing 737-7 MAX Receives FAA Certification - Courtesy Boeing

On Monday (August 3, 2026), Boeing announced that the FAA has granted an amended type certificate for the 737-7 MAX variant, clearing the way for the aircraft’s entry into commercial service.  The smallest and longest-range member of the 737 MAX Family, the 737-7 serves an important market segment by offering 135 to 160 seats (configured in two classes) while providing about 10 percent more range potential than larger variants.  Like other 737 MAX jets, the 737-7 reduces fuel use and CO2 emissions by 20 percent and noise footprint by 50 percent compared to the airplanes it typically replaces. 

In Monday’s announcement, Boeing Commercial Airplanes’ CEO, Stephanie Pope, said,

“This important certification validates the rigor of our airplane’s design and recognizes the determination and resilience of our 737 MAX development team.  Our team of dedicated engineers and test experts worked through challenges, an extended pandemic, and the transition to new certification processes.  Through it all, our team stayed focused on completing all requirements and delivering a safe and more capable airplane to our customers.”

Also commenting on the 737-7 MAX certification, Boeing’s VP – Product Strategy, Product Development and Development Programs, Mike Sinnett, said,

“Our Boeing team held regular and detailed discussions with the FAA to ensure Boeing understood the requirements and provided transparency of our progress.  With this certification program, Boeing has developed a clearer understanding of the latest regulatory requirements, which is expected to accelerate future airplane development with a renewed emphasis on human factors, safety and quality.”

This regulatory approval caps a multi-year certification effort, where Boeing demonstrated through comprehensive testing and analysis that the airplane meets all commercial aviation regulations.  The test program, which began in 2018, included over 1,000 hours of flight and ground testing extensive system safety analysis and human factors reviews, and an updated engine anti-ice system to address a potential condition that was discovered during flight testing.  Boeing and Southwest Airlines, the 737-7 launch customer, are preparing for delivery of the first airplane.  A team is readying the first airplanes, including implementing updates to the airplane’s final configuration. 

The Boeing 737-7 MAX typically seats 135-160 passengers in a two-class configuration and offers a range of up to 3,800 nautical miles (7,040 km).  The airplane is designed for exceptional performance for operators flying out of airports at high altitudes and hot climates.  The 737 MAX Family order book currently stands at over 7,200 airplanes, of which more than 2,300 have been delivered through the end of June 2026. 

Source: Boeing