WASHINGTON, Nov 22 (Reuters) – Boeing said on Wednesday that the U.S. aviation regulator has cleared it to begin certification flight testing of its 737 MAX 10, the largest version of its bestselling jet aimed at seizing the top of the narrowbody market.

Boeing shares rose 1.1% in midday trade. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that has it granted type inspection authorization for the 737 MAX 10.

Type inspection authorization is typically associated with the kickoff of the certification process, made after the FAA has examined technical data. The milestone allows FAA pilots to participate in flight testing needed to certify the plane for normal operations, three Boeing executives wrote in a letter to employees on Wednesday.

Photo Rob Vogelaar