Alaska Air expects Boeing’s long-delayed 737 MAX 10 to win Federal Aviation Administration certification by the end of September, clearing the way for first delivery next spring and passenger service between April and mid-May 2027. The timetable, outlined by Alaska Airlines chief operating officer Jason Berry, puts the largest 737 MAX on track for entry into the carrier’s narrowbody fleet after years of delays.
Boeing has also signalled that approval is close. Chief executive Kelly Ortberg described certification as coming “very soon” and said flight testing was complete, leaving only final documentation work with the FAA.
Alaska still faces additional certification work for the aircraft’s head-up display after the type approval is secured, a process Berry said would take a few months. The airline’s planned schedule indicates it is preparing for the MAX 10 to become a key part of its fleet expansion in 2027.