Key facts
- Boeing is close to receiving regulatory certification for a fix to the 737 MAX's engine anti-ice system.
- The fix addresses a potential overheating and engine failure issue, which has delayed the certification of the MAX 7 and MAX 10 variants.
- Approximately 30 MAX 7s and nine MAX 10s are already built and awaiting delivery.
- The MAX 10 has completed 98% of its certification flight testing.
- The anti-ice system fix also offers benefits in reducing engine noise and mitigating fan flutter.
- Boeing is working with regulators to schedule retrofits for existing MAX aircraft during heavy maintenance.
Boeing is nearing the final stages of regulatory approval for a fix to the engine anti-ice system on its 737 MAX aircraft, a development that could allow the long-delayed MAX 7 and MAX 10 variants to enter service. The issue, which could lead to overheating and engine failure, has been the primary obstacle to certification for these models.
According to company executives, the redesign addresses the critical safety concern and also offers secondary benefits such as reduced engine noise and mitigation of fan flutter. Boeing has already produced approximately 30 MAX 7s and nine MAX 10s that are awaiting delivery. The MAX 10, which accounts for at least 28% of outstanding MAX orders, has completed 98% of its certification flight testing, with only two tests remaining.
The certification process for the MAX 7 and 10 has faced significant delays, spanning years, which has allowed competitor Airbus to strengthen its position in the narrowbody aircraft market. Boeing has been subject to a more rigorous certification process following two fatal MAX 8 crashes in 2018 and 2019, and increased scrutiny of its production and quality systems after a mid-air cabin panel blowout on an Alaska Airlines MAX 9 in January 2024.
While regulators permitted existing MAX variants (MAX 8, 8-200, and 9) to continue flying and production, the certification of the newer variants was postponed after the anti-ice system issue was identified in 2021. Boeing is collaborating with regulators to establish a schedule for airlines to implement the necessary repairs during heavy maintenance checks, aiming to minimize disruption and costs. The MAX 10 will also feature an updated flight crew alerting system to enhance safety, a requirement stemming from the previous fatal accidents. All currently in-service 737 MAX jets are expected to receive this new system within two years of its certification.
In parallel, Boeing is progressing with the certification of its widebody 777-9, having completed over 50% of its flight testing and remaining on track for deliveries to commence next year. However, the company still needs to fulfill several major certification requirements for the 777-9, including approval for long-distance flights over remote areas.