Boeing has revealed the latest variant of in the 737 family of aircraft, the Max 7, at its factory in Renton, Washington.
The Max 7 is the third member of the 737 Max family produced. It is designed for up to 172 passengers and has a maximum range of 3,850 nautical miles, the longest range of the Max airplane family. The range is more than 1,000 nautical miles more than its predecessor, the 737-700, while the Max 7 still manages 18% lower fuel costs per seat, Boeing said.
This first Max 7 will now undergo system checks, fueling and engine runs on the flight line in Renton. The aircraft is the first of two Max 7 flight test airplanes and will begin its flight testing program in the coming weeks.
The 737 Max 7 is scheduled to enter service in 2019, following delivery to launch customer Southwest Airlines.
Keith Leverkuhn, vice president and general manager of the 737 Max program for Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said, “For our airline customers serving airports at high altitudes or remote locations, the Max 7 is the ideal complement to their fleet. We look forward to demonstrating the incredible flexibility and range of this airplane.”
Boeing 737 Max 7 fast facts
” Maximum seats: 172
” Range – nautical miles (km): 3,850 (7,130)
” Length: 35.56m (116ft 8in)
” Wingspan: 35.9m (117ft 10in)
” Engine: LEAP-1B from CFM International
February 6, 2018