The US Federal Aviation Administration has granted Boeing an amended type certificate for the 737-7, clearing the smallest and longest-range member of the 737 MAX family for commercial service.

The 737-7 seats 135 to 160 passengers in a two-class configuration and offers around 10% more range than its siblings, with a maximum range of up to 3,800 nautical miles (7,040km). Boeing designed the variant for strong performance from airports at high altitude and in hot climates. Like other 737 MAX aircraft, it reduces fuel use and CO2 emissions by 20% and cuts noise footprint by 50% compared with the aircraft it typically replaces.

Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, says: “Our team of dedicated engineers and test experts worked through challenges, an extended pandemic and the transition to new certification processes. Through it all, our team stayed focused on completing all requirements and delivering a safe and more capable airplane to our customers.”

Mike Sinnett, senior vice president of Product Strategy, Product Development and Development Programs, adds: “Our Boeing team held regular and detailed discussions with the FAA to ensure Boeing understood the requirements and provided transparency of our progress.”

The test programme began in 2018 and included more than 1,000 hours of flight and ground testing along with extensive system safety analysis and human factors reviews. An updated engine anti-ice system was introduced to address a condition identified during flight testing. The FAA has also updated Boeing Production Certificate No. 700 to include the 737-7.

Southwest Airlines, the type's launch customer, is preparing to receive the first aircraft as Boeing finalises its configuration. The 737 MAX family order book stands at more than 7,200 aircraft, of which over 2,300 had been delivered by the end of June 2026. Boeing is separately working towards certification of the largest variant, the 737-10, this year.