Overview
- Federal regulators authorized the largest 737 MAX variant to enter the second phase of flight testing under its Type Inspection Authorization.
- Phase 2 focuses on avionics, propulsion and other key design areas that feed into certification credit.
- The approval does not cover the 737 MAX 7, which remains excluded as engineers continue work on an engine anti‑ice issue.
- Boeing and the FAA declined comment during a pre‑earnings quiet period, while analysts say MAX 10 deliveries are important for revenue and cash flow with more than 1,200 orders in backlog, according to Cirium.
- The MAX 10’s certification timeline carries commercial pressure, highlighted by Alaska Airlines’ 105‑jet order and competition with Airbus’s A321neo.