FAA certifies Boeing 737 MAX 10, clearing production and deliveries

The FAA has certified Boeing’s 737 MAX 10, clearing the aircraft for production and delivery after years of review and delays.

The agency said on October 20 that it issued an amended type certificate and updated Production Limitation Record for the MAX 10. The approvals confirm compliance with applicable design and safety requirements and authorize Boeing to produce the aircraft for domestic and foreign carriers.

Before certification, the FAA required changes addressing provisions of the Aircraft Certification, Safety, and Accountability Act and National Transportation Safety Board recommendations. The agency specifically cited updates to the flight-control system, including an enhanced angle-of-attack sensor. The FAA also said the aircraft includes new safety features and reduced fuel consumption.

The MAX 10 is the last variant in Boeing’s 737 MAX family to receive FAA certification. Its approval follows years of delays linked to the two fatal MAX crashes, changes to the FAA’s certification system and problems involving the variant’s engine anti-ice system, AirlineGeeks reported.

WestJet is the launch customer, while United, Delta, American Airlines, Alaska Airlines and Ryanair are among the other confirmed buyers. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2027, but the sources do not provide a more specific delivery schedule or identify the first operating route.

The certification permits the next production and delivery steps; it does not by itself establish when individual airlines will begin passenger service.