FAA Deliberates Boeing 737 MAX Production Cap Amid Certification Delays

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently assessing the production limit of 38 planes per month for Boeing’s 737 MAX jets. FAA officials have confirmed that they are closely monitoring the assembly line in Renton, Washington, where inspectors oversee the entire manufacturing process. Boeing has yet to formally request an increase to this monthly cap, although the company recently reached the production limit, with the 737-7 and 737-10 variants expected to achieve certification soon.

Boeing is actively producing the 737 MAX 8 and 737 MAX 9 models. The certification of the 737-7 and 737-10 variants is anticipated by the end of the year. Notably, Southwest Airlines has placed extensive orders for the 737-7, while numerous carriers globally have expressed interest in the larger 737-10. Despite these developments, Boeing has faced challenges in meeting production targets for the 737-8 and 737-9 models, largely due to safety concerns that arose following the tragic crashes of Lion Air Flight 610 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302.

FAA’s Ongoing Review Process

During a recent press event on September 8, 2023, FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford provided updates on the evaluation process. He stated, “Progress is being made. It may not be as fast perhaps as Boeing would like, but it is as fast as we can reasonably move through the process. This is going to be a bottom-up process – front-line FAA team that’s really on them to make the recommendation of whether they feel like we’ve reached some of the milestones that would warrant any kind of change.” Despite this progress, no formal recommendations for changing the production cap have been made as of yet.

Boeing’s struggles with the 737 MAX series have been well-documented. The aircraft was initially designed to enhance technological capabilities. However, quality issues led to the loss of nearly 350 lives in two high-profile crashes. The aftermath of these incidents saw the FAA halt production and ground the global fleet until investigations confirmed the causes. Although Boeing has since made improvements to its autopilot software and sensors, additional production caps have been implemented following further safety incidents, including a door malfunction in an Alaska Airlines flight.

Future Prospects for Boeing

As Boeing works to integrate Spirit Aerosystems, its fuselage and aerostructures supplier, the company aims to increase production capacity. The 737-7 and 737-10 variants face certification hurdles related to engine de-icing and potential cabin safety issues. Nonetheless, Boeing is optimistic these matters will be resolved by the end of 2023, allowing the company to ramp up production significantly.

As 2026 approaches, Boeing is under pressure to deliver planes to major clients, including Southwest, Emirates, and United Airlines. Each of these airlines holds substantial orders for the yet-to-be-certified variants. To meet these demands, Boeing plans to conduct tabletop exercises with the FAA to demonstrate its ability to resolve crises without compromising safety or quality. Success in these initiatives could allow Boeing not only to revive its production of the 737 series but also to potentially surpass Airbus in delivery output.

In summary, the FAA’s decision on Boeing’s production cap is still pending as the agency continues its thorough evaluation of safety and production practices. The outcome will have significant implications for Boeing’s operations and its ability to fulfill growing demand in the aviation market.