FAA Grants Certification Approval for Boeing 737 Max 10

WASHINGTON, Oct 20 (OPA) — The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a type inspection authorization for the 737 Max 10, allowing Boeing to begin formal certification flights. This regulatory step is required before the agency can grant an amended type certificate for the largest variant of the Max family.

Boeing has faced intense pressure to bring the aircraft to market after the model missed its original 2020 entry-to-service target. The certification process was stalled by heightened safety oversight following two fatal crashes involving earlier Max models and subsequent manufacturing quality concerns.

Incoming Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg and other industry executives have criticized the current certification timeline as overly protracted. Ortberg recently stated that the regulatory process should be more efficient, arguing that current delays hinder the company's ability to compete and meet airline delivery schedules.

With the authorization in place, Boeing will conduct a series of rigorous flight tests monitored by FAA personnel. The company must demonstrate that the aircraft meets all safety standards before the Max 10 can be cleared for commercial service with passenger airlines.