ATLANTA- Delta Air Lines (DL) has revised its timeline for receiving its first Boeing 737 MAX 10 aircraft. The US carrier now expects deliveries to begin in 2026, a year later than previously anticipated.
This information comes from a recent filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on October 10.
Delta Boeing 737 MAX 10
The airline has amended its purchase agreement with Boeing, which includes firm orders for 100 737 Max 10s and options for an additional 30 aircraft. According to the updated delivery schedule, Delta will receive 20 737 Max 10s in 2026, with the remaining 80 aircraft arriving in subsequent years.
Currently, Delta operates a diverse fleet of Airbus and Boeing narrowbody aircraft. This includes 77 older 737-800s and 163 737-900ERs. The incoming 737 Max 10s will mark Delta’s first foray into the latest generation of 737 aircraft.
The 737 Max 10, the largest variant in the 737 Max family, has faced significant delays in its certification process. Former Boeing CEO David Calhoun stated in July that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) could certify the aircraft in the first half of 2025. The smaller 737 Max 7 is following a similar certification timeline.
Boeing has reportedly made progress in addressing an overheating issue with the engine anti-ice system for both the Max 7 and Max 10 variants. This problem has been a key factor in the certification delays. However, the ultimate timing for certification remains in the hands of the FAA.
The regulatory body has intensified its scrutiny of Boeing’s certification processes following criticism of its handling of the Max 8 and Max 9 certifications. This increased oversight has contributed to the delays in approving the newer variants.
Boeing is also facing a machinist strike at its Renton, Washington, production facility, which adds to its challenges.
Delta’s CEO earlier said that he expects further delays. He said, “We were already anticipating if it came in ‘25, it’d be late in the year. My guess is it will be another year or two beyond that.”
United Cancelled MAX 10 Orders?
United Airlines (UA) is reevaluating its commitment to the Boeing 737 MAX 10 due to prolonged certification delays. The airline has removed the aircraft from its fleet plan and is now exploring alternatives.
UA is in discussions about either switching to a different MAX variant or securing production slots from Boeing’s competitor, Airbus.
Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian addressed the situation, stating that the MAX 10 does not hold a crucial position in Delta’s fleet plan. This stance stems from the fact that Delta has not yet taken delivery of any MAX aircraft.
Boeing’s 737 MAX series continues to face intense scrutiny following a series of safety incidents.
In January, the manufacturer withdrew a significant safety exemption request for its 737 MAX 7 and 10 models, further complicating the certification timeline. This decision was prompted by escalating safety concerns after a mid-air incident involving an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9 jet.
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