The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) does not have a “specific timetable” for certifying the Boeing 737 MAX 7, according to the agency’s top official. FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker said the agency will certify the smallest variant of the best-selling MAX when “we have all the data that we need and it is safe.”
Despite Boeing’s earlier anticipation of certification by the end of this year, Whitaker emphasised that the FAA would proceed when they have all the necessary data to ensure safety. He stated that he is actively monitoring the status of the MAX 7 and other projects and added, “the issues are being worked and that will continue.”
In October, Boeing executives maintained that the schedule for certifying the Boeing 737 MAX 7 remained unchanged. Additionally, Boeing is awaiting certification for the larger 737 MAX 10. Southwest Airlines, which is the largest customer for the MAX 7, expressed last month that it anticipates FAA certification for the plane by April.
Boeing pursuing exemption to certain regulations
Boeing is currently seeking an exemption to regulations related to the MAX 7’s engine systems. This exemption, valid until May 31, 2026, is crucial for addressing issues in the engine anti-ice system, and the FAA is accepting comments on it until December 26.
The FAA, acknowledging lessons from the 2018 and 2019 MAX crashes, is implementing key flight control design changes, with a focus on continuous improvement and heightened vigilance in the certification process.
FAA enhancing certification process
Last month, the FAA announced that it would categorise key flight control design changes as “major,” similar to the system implicated in the two fatal MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019.
Whitaker emphasised the FAA’s commitment to consistently seeking ways to enhance the certification process, ensuring that emerging issues receive increased attention. Additionally, he highlighted the agency’s focus on evaluating the safety of new technologies and maintaining a heightened level of vigilance in the aftermath of the MAX crashes.
(With inputs from Reuters)