The U.S. Air Force plans to procure a Boeing 737 MAX for its C-40 VIP transport fleet, a move that would make the service the first military operator of the MAX family. Air Mobility Command has confirmed the purchase intent, with funding already approved in 2026 for a single-aircraft fleet expansion tied to the C-40 programme.
The exact variant has not been chosen, although the MAX 7 is seen as the closest match to the current C-40B and C-40C aircraft. AMC posted a training solicitation in July for a Boeing 737-8 MAX, indicating preparation for differences training on the new type rather than a separate VIP transport concept.
The aircraft is expected to enter service as a C-40D, although that designation remains unofficial. The move would add a modernised 737 derivative to a fleet built around older 737 Next Generation aircraft, while Boeing pushes towards FAA certification of the MAX 10, which company executives have indicated is approaching approval very soon.