Boeing aims to complete certification of its 737 MAX 7 and MAX 10 jets by the end of 2025. In a report from Reuters, CEO Kelly Ortberg shared this update in an interview with Aviation Week published on May 28, 2025. These models, the smallest and largest in the 737 MAX lineup, have experienced delays, mainly due to issues related to the aircraft’s engine de-icing system. The company has been working for years to meet the requirements set by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration.
Ortberg stated that Boeing plans to finish certification this year, which would allow deliveries of both aircraft to begin. “Two airplanes that are very, very important to our customers and our backlog,” he said. The MAX 7 and MAX 10 are expected to play a role in fulfilling existing orders and meeting airline needs over the next few years.
The demand for both models remains high. Boeing’s order book currently lists nearly 1,200 orders for the 737 MAX 10 and 332 orders for the MAX 7. These figures show strong interest from airline customers that have been waiting for the certification process to conclude.
Some major airlines have already set expectations for when they will receive these aircraft. United Airlines’ Chief Commercial Officer Andrew Nocella told reporters earlier this month that the company does not anticipate receiving its first MAX 10 until 2027. Alaska Airlines officials also stated they do not expect deliveries until at least mid-2026. These timelines reflect the delays the program has faced and the planning airlines must do as they prepare for the new additions to their fleets.
777-9 also progressing toward certification
Ortberg also addressed the status of another Boeing aircraft still in development. He confirmed that the company is making progress in certifying the 777-9, Boeing’s largest passenger aircraft currently in production. The 777-9 was originally expected to enter service in 2020 when Boeing launched the program in 2013. However, it remains in the flight testing phase.
Ortberg previously said that Boeing expects deliveries of the 777-9 to begin in 2026. This timeline offers airlines a clearer view of when the widebody jet might become available for commercial service. Boeing’s website shows that the company has received 419 orders for the 777-9, showing continued interest in this model from global carriers.
Boeing continues to work on gaining certification for its MAX 7, MAX 10, and 777-9 aircraft. The company aims to complete the process for the two MAX models by the end of 2025 and start deliveries soon after. While some airlines do not expect to receive these jets until 2026 or later, the certification progress marks an important phase in Boeing’s broader delivery plans.
