The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) signed certification documents for the Boeing 737-10 on 20 October 2026. The aircraft is the largest model in the 737 MAX family. The certification followed nearly 1,000 test flights, safety assessments and design reviews.
Aircraft Type Certification
An amended type certificate confirms that an aircraft design meets applicable regulatory requirements. The FAA issued an amended type certificate for the 737-10 after reviewing its design and safety requirements. It also issued an updated Production Limitation Record, which authorises production of the aircraft. The certification programme included thousands of hours of test flights and extensive technical assessments. FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford stated that the agency reviewed the aircraft’s design and safety requirements. US Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy said on 20 October 2026 that the FAA team was ready to approve the aircraft for sale.
Aircraft Safety Requirements
The 737-10 incorporated changes required under the Aircraft Certification, Safety, and Accountability Act and recommendations from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). These changes included updates to the flight-control system and an enhanced angle of attack (AOA) sensor. An angle of attack sensor measures the angle between an aircraft’s wing and the airflow approaching it. Flight-control systems use sensor inputs to support the operation of aircraft controls. The NTSB investigates civil aviation accidents and issues safety recommendations, while the FAA regulates civil aviation in the United States.
Production and International Approval
The FAA certification allows Boeing to begin deliveries of the 737-10. The model accounts for nearly a quarter of Boeing’s backlog. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is expected to consider approval in the coming months and has been technically involved in the certification project.
Important Facts for Exams
:
- The Federal Aviation Administration is the US government agency responsible for regulating civil aviation.
- The National Transportation Safety Board investigates civil aviation accidents and makes safety recommendations.
- The Boeing 737 is a narrow-body, twin-engine commercial aircraft family.
- The European Union Aviation Safety Agency is the European Union agency responsible for civil aviation safety and environmental protection.
The FAA issued the 737-10’s amended type certificate and updated Production Limitation Record on 20 October 2026. EASA approval remained a separate regulatory step.
