FAA certifies Boeing 737 MAX-7, paving way for U.S. deliveries

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration has granted type certification to Boeing's 737 MAX-7 (also referred to as the 737‑7). The approval marks the final regulatory step before the aircraft can enter commercial service and Boeing can begin delivering the model to airlines.

The certification follows a lengthy flight‑test program and safety reviews that were intensified after the 2018‑2019 crashes involving earlier MAX variants. Boeing said its first U.S. customers are Southwest Airlines, which has ordered 258 aircraft, and Allegiant Air, with an order for 24. The aircraft will also be offered as a basis for the Boeing Business Jet.

While the FAA approval allows the 737 MAX‑7 to operate in much of the world, additional certifications from authorities such as the European Union Aviation Safety Agency are still required for global service. The move expands Boeing's short‑ and medium‑range product line and intensifies competition with Airbus's A319neo and A220‑300 families.