Boeing is reportedly in the early stages of developing a new single-aisle, twin-engine jet. This aircraft would eventually replace the current Boeing 737 MAX family. This development comes as the planemaker continues to address production and safety challenges with its existing fleet.
Sources indicate that discussions have already taken place with potential engine manufacturers. Earlier this year, Kelly Ortberg, Boeing's Chief Executive Officer, met with Rolls-Royce Holdings. Rolls-Royce is a leading candidate to develop the engines for this proposed new aircraft.
Key Takeaways
- Boeing is exploring a new single-aisle jet to replace the 737 MAX.
- Early talks with engine manufacturers, including Rolls-Royce, have occurred.
- Boeing is also designing a refreshed flight deck for future aircraft.
- The company faces ongoing scrutiny after multiple 737 MAX incidents.
- New orders for the 737 MAX continue despite past issues.
New Aircraft Development and Flight Deck Redesigns
Reports suggest Boeing is not only considering a new aircraft but also formulating designs for a redesigned flight deck. These plans are in their initial phases. No final decisions have been made regarding production for either the new aircraft or the flight deck changes.
The Wall Street Journal first reported on these potential developments. Boeing remains focused on its current commitments. The company has nearly 6,000 outstanding aircraft orders to deliver. It is also working to ensure the certification of aircraft types still awaiting final approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Boeing's Recent History
Boeing has faced significant challenges over the past decade. The 737 MAX entered service in 2017. However, two fatal accidents in 2018 and 2019 led to the deaths of 346 people. These incidents resulted in a global grounding of the aircraft type in 2019, which lasted until the following year. The events severely impacted Boeing's finances, leading to profit reductions, global lawsuits, and investigations.
Ongoing Safety Scrutiny
More recently, a third incident involving a 737 MAX flight operated by Alaska Airlines occurred in January 2024. A door plug blew out mid-flight shortly after takeoff from Portland, Oregon. This event led to intense scrutiny from the FAA.
Investigations into the Alaska Airlines incident found four missing bolts on the door plug. This discovery prompted the U.S. Justice Department to open a criminal investigation. Boeing was found not in compliance with expected safety measures.
Aircraft Orders Continue for the 737 MAX
Despite ongoing safety concerns and investigations, airlines continue to place orders for the 737 MAX. This indicates a continued market demand for the aircraft type.
On September 26, European low-cost carrier Norwegian Air Shuttle announced its decision to exercise options to purchase an additional 30 Boeing 737 MAX 8 airplanes. This increased Norwegian's total order to 80 aircraft.
Deliveries for these aircraft are expected to continue until 2031. This large order signals a strategic move for Norwegian, which aims to secure its future fleet growth and sustainability targets.
"This milestone aircraft order is on attractive terms and secures our fleet growth in a way that supports our planned growth and sustainability targets," said Geir Karlsen, CEO of Norwegian Air Shuttle.
Norwegian Air Shuttle's Expansion
- Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Norwegian operated long-haul international flights with the Boeing 787 and numerous European routes with its 737 fleet.
- The airline was known for its distinct red nose and tail fin heroes.
- The latest order for 80 Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft marks a significant step in the carrier's post-pandemic strategy.
Turkish Airlines Places Major Order
Norwegian was not the only airline making headlines for large Boeing orders. Turkish Airlines, an Istanbul-based global carrier, also announced a significant purchase. The airline ordered 75 new Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft and 150 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft.
This combined order represents the largest-ever widebody one-time purchase for the Star Alliance member. These new aircraft will support Turkish Airlines' global expansion plans and its extensive fleet renewal program.
Boeing to Resume Issuing Airworthiness Certificates
In a significant development, the FAA will permit Boeing to issue airworthiness certificates for some 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner aircraft. This policy change takes effect this week, according to Reuters.
The FAA had previously revoked Boeing's authority to issue these certificates for the 737 MAX in 2019 and for the 787 in 2022. These revocations were due to ongoing production quality concerns.
Certificate Issuance Schedule
- Starting September 29, Boeing and the FAA will alternate weeks for issuing certificates.
- This change is expected to increase aircraft deliveries.
- It also signals the FAA's confidence in Boeing's ability to produce quality and safe aircraft after an extensive review.
The FAA's decision followed a thorough review of Boeing's production quality and surveillance processes. This review was part of a comprehensive assessment.
The current production cap of 38 MAX aircraft per month remains in place. However, the FAA has stated it will conduct extensive planning and reviews should Boeing request an increase in this rate. This approach aims to balance production efficiency with continued safety oversight.
