The Boeing 737-7 has received certification from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The authority granted Boeing an amended type certificate for the smallest variant of the 737 MAX family. This clears the aircraft for commercial service in the United States. Boeing and launch customer Southwest Airlines are now preparing the first aircraft for delivery.
The certification concludes a test program that began in 2018. According to Boeing, the 737-7 completed more than 1,000 hours of flight and ground testing. The process also included extensive system safety analyses and human-factors reviews, covering the interaction between people and technical systems.
Engine anti-ice system revised during testing
The engine anti-ice system was also modified during flight testing. Boeing said the change addressed a potential condition identified during the test program. The system protects parts of the engine from ice accumulation and was revised as part of the certification process.
According to Boeing, the company held regular and detailed discussions with the FAA throughout certification. Mike Sinnett, Senior Vice President Product Strategy, Product Development and Development Programs at Boeing, pointed in particular to new regulatory requirements and the greater emphasis placed on human factors, safety and quality in the development process.
737-7 offers up to 3,800 nautical miles of range
The 737-7 is the smallest member of the 737 MAX family. In a typical two-class configuration, it seats between 135 and 160 passengers. With a maximum range of 3,800 nautical miles, or around 7,040 kilometers, it also has the longest range in the MAX family.
Boeing says the 737-7 uses around 20 percent less fuel and produces correspondingly lower CO₂ emissions than the aircraft it typically replaces. The company also states that its noise footprint is 50 percent smaller.
Boeing and Southwest Airlines are now preparing the first aircraft for delivery. This includes modifications to bring them to their final configuration. At the same time, the FAA has expanded Boeing’s Production Certificate No. 700 to include the 737-7.
Image: Boeing