BRUSSELS- Ryanair (FR) expects Boeing to secure certification for the 737 MAX 10 in the third quarter, with deliveries starting early next year. The update was shared by CEO Michael O’Leary during an event in Brussels Airport (BRU).
The certification timeline is more precise than Boeing’s public guidance and signals progress for a key aircraft program tied to the company’s recovery strategy, Reuters reported.
Boeing 737 MAX 10 Certification Timeline Gains Clarity
Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary stated that Boeing is targeting third-quarter certification for the 737 MAX 10, the largest aircraft in the MAX family. This timeline, if met, would allow deliveries to begin in early 2027.
Boeing has not officially confirmed this schedule. However, the company previously indicated that certification for both the 737-7 and 737-10 variants is expected in the second half of the year.
The certification process requires extensive flight testing and regulatory validation by the US Federal Aviation Administration. Key systems under evaluation include autopilot functions and engine anti-icing capabilities. These systems are critical for operational safety and compliance.
The 737 MAX 10 plays a central role in Boeing’s effort to stabilize its commercial aircraft business. The program follows years of operational disruptions, including safety concerns, regulatory scrutiny, and production challenges.
The aircraft directly competes with Airbus’ A321neo, which has been in service since 2017 and dominates the high-capacity narrowbody segment. Boeing’s ability to certify and deliver the MAX 10 is essential to regaining market share, RTE flagged.
Ryanair’s Fleet Expansion Plans
Ryanair has placed an order for 150 Boeing 737 MAX 10 aircraft, with options for an additional 150. The airline already operates a large fleet of high-density 737 MAX 8 jets.
The MAX 10 will allow Ryanair to increase passenger capacity while maintaining low operating costs, aligning with its ultra-low-cost business model. Higher seat density improves unit economics and supports network expansion.
Boeing plans to produce 30 units of the 737 MAX 10 in 2026, with deliveries scheduled for 2027. This aligns with the expected certification timeline.
The company is also working to increase overall 737 production rates from 42 aircraft per month to 47 by mid-year. This ramp-up reflects improving supply chain stability and growing demand.
Boeing has already delivered more than 2,000 aircraft from the 737 MAX 8 and MAX 9 variants, which are currently in service worldwide.
Regulatory and Technical Challenges
Certification delays have been driven by strict regulatory oversight and the need to validate complex aircraft systems. The FAA continues to apply rigorous standards following past issues with the MAX program.
Testing requirements for the MAX 10 include performance validation under various operational conditions. Successful certification depends on meeting all safety and compliance benchmarks without exception.
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