Overview
- The FAA issued an amended type certificate for the 737 MAX 7 on Monday, Aug. 3, 2026, after Boeing completed 441 test flights totaling roughly 686 flight hours.
- Before approval the agency required concrete fixes including updates to flight‑control software, clearer flightcrew alerting and a redesigned engine anti‑ice system that prevents engine overheating.
- FAA safety inspectors will remain at Boeing production sites to monitor manufacturing and the company’s Safety Management System as deliveries are prepared.
- Southwest Airlines is the launch customer with roughly 250–270 MAX 7s on order, and operators and Boeing say it may take months to ready the jets for regular passenger schedules.
- The certification is a milestone in Boeing’s effort to restore certification credibility and boost MAX output, while the larger MAX‑10 still awaits final regulatory closeout and the company ramps a new Everett production line.