Boeing unveiled its first 737 Max 9, the second model in the 737 Max family following the Max 8. Rolled out in Renton, Washington, the aircraft completed system checks, fueling and engine runs during its preparation for flight. Boeing expects the Max 9 to enter commercial service next year.
Designed to accommodate up to 220 passengers—16 more than the previous model—the Max 9 also offers an extended non-stop range of 3,515 nautical miles. This expanded capacity and range create new route possibilities for single-aisle operations, enabling airlines to serve longer sectors without stepping up to larger widebody aircraft.
“The 737 Max team continues to do a fantastic job getting us to these important milestones right on schedule,” said Keith Leverkuhn, vice president and general manager of Boeing’s 737 program. “Our primary focus is delivering an aircraft that has the legendary reliability our 737 customers depend on, plus the optimized flexibility and range capability they desire.”
The Max 8, introduced in 2015, is set to be delivered to launch customer Norwegian Air Shuttle in May, while Southwest Airlines—another launch customer—expects its first Max series aircraft to enter service on October 1. Together these aircraft expand airlines’ options for efficient, longer single-aisle flights.
Demand for the 737 Max family has been strong: it is Boeing’s fastest-selling aircraft line, with more than 3,600 orders from 83 customers around the world. The Max 9 strengthens that lineup by offering higher capacity and extended range while maintaining the operational and economic characteristics that have made the 737 a mainstay for carriers globally.