US FAA certifies new Boeing 737-7 airplane

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted Boeing an amended type certificate for the new 737-7 airplane, clearing it for commercial service. The regulatory approval caps a multi-year certification effort by Boeing that included: More than 1,000 hours of flight and ground testing; Extensive system safety analysis and human factors reviews; An updated engine anti-ice system to address a potential condition that was discovered during flight testing. The smallest and longest-range member of the 737 MAX family, the 737-7 model serves an important market segment by offering 135 to 160 seats (in a two-class configuration) while providing about 10% more range potential than its siblings. Like other 737 MAX jets, the 737-7 reduces fuel use and CO2 emissions by 20% and noise footprint by 50% compared to the airplanes it typically replaces. “This important certification validates the rigor of our airplane’s design and recognises the determination and resilience of our 737 MAX development team,” said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “Our team of dedicated engineers and test experts worked through challenges, an extended pandemic, and the transition to new certification processes,” Pope added. “Through it all, our team stayed focused on completing all requirements and delivering a safe and more capable airplane to our customers.” “Our Boeing team held regular and detailed discussions with the FAA to ensure Boeing understood the requirements and provided transparency of our progress,” said Mike Sinnett, senior vice president of Product Strategy, Product Development and Development Programs. “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.” 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 FAA also updated Boeing Production Certificate No. 700 (PC 700) to include the 737-7. The 737 MAX family order book stands at more than 7,200 airplanes, of which more than 2,300 have been delivered through the end of June 2026. The 737-7 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. Somon Air receives first Boeing 737 MAX jet (PHOTO: Via Boeing) Boeing and Somon Air announced the delivery of the airline’s first 737 MAX, as the Tajik national carrier continues to modernise its fleet and grow its network. The 737-8 is the first of two airplanes leased from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) to be delivered and represents the first 737 MAX in Tajikistan. “Considering the central geographic location of Tajikistan and the improved range capability of Boeing 737-8, this fleet expansion gives Somon Air opportunity to open new routes with improved economics considering the new aircrafts’ fuel efficiency,” said Abdulkosim Valiev, CEO of Somon Air. “Somon Air greatly values its unique long-term relationship with the Boeing company and looks forward to continuous growth of its fleet by adding more efficient and modern Boeing aircraft.” The 737-8 is central to Somon Air’s fleet renewal strategy and will be used to fly short- and medium-haul routes across Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. With longer range and stronger operating economics than previous-generation airplanes, the 737-8 gives Somon Air the flexibility to serve high-demand routes while positioning the airline for future growth, including planned service to London, Beijing and Guangzhou. Firoz Tarapore, CEO of DAE, added, “DAE is delighted to a part of this momentous occasion, delivering both Somon Air’s first Boeing 737-8, and the first Boeing 737-8 in Tajikistan. This aircraft is part of a two aircraft commitment, and we are excited to further our relationship with Somon Air. We wish the management team success in deploying these aircraft across their network. DAE Capital has over 190 Boeing 737 MAX Family aircraft in its fleet, and the family form a key pillar of our commitment to operating the newest, most fuel-efficient aircraft.” For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Matt Driskill at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Head of Sales Sally Passey at [email protected]