What Happened
Smallest MAX Variant Faces Months-Long Delay Before Passenger Service
The Boeing 737 MAX 7 has received regulatory approval in the United States, but passengers may have to wait several more months before flying on the aircraft. Southwest Airlines, the launch customer, expects the first deliveries near the end of 2026, with the aircraft entering passenger service in early 2027. The delay is partly due to the 27 MAX 7s already built by Boeing, which are now being prepared for delivery. The certification process included over 1,000 hours of flight and ground testing and was delayed by issues with the engine anti-ice system. This development was first reported by Unknown Source.