Aviation News – Boeing has received approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to move the 737 MAX 10 into the second phase of flight testing, a key step in the aircraft’s long-delayed certification process that matters to airlines awaiting capacity growth.
The decision advances certification work on the largest variant of Boeing’s best-selling single-aisle jet, with the manufacturer aiming to complete approval for both the MAX 7 and MAX 10 later this year.
The MAX 10 program has faced extended scrutiny as part of broader regulatory reforms following earlier 737 MAX safety issues. According to a source familiar with the program, the FAA cleared the aircraft to proceed to the next test phase, while both the regulator and Boeing declined formal comment. Boeing has previously stated its intention to finish certification in 2026, with the MAX 10 holding more than 1,200 orders in its backlog, based on data from Cirium.
The second phase of flight testing focuses on expanded performance evaluations, systems reliability, and operational scenarios that support final certification findings. Progress through this phase brings the MAX 10 closer to entry into service, offering airlines higher seating capacity and improved fuel efficiency compared with earlier variants.
