Boeing completes new 737 design

Boeing has finalised the design of its new single-aisle aircraft, the 737 MAX 8.

Completing the broad design process now means the company can fine-tune the details before starting construction on the first test models. Final assembly of the B737 MAX 8 is scheduled to begin in 2015 with first delivery scheduled for the third quarter of 2017.

“We have defined the design requirements for the 737 MAX that provide our customers with the most value in the single-aisle market,” said Michael Teal, chief project engineer of the 737 MAX. “We continue to follow our disciplined process to ensure that we have completed all the requirements for the development stage of the programme and are ready to begin the detailed design phase.”

Designed as a more fuel-efficient alternative to the existing B737 series, Boeing claims the B737 MAX will be 13% more fuel-efficient than today’s most efficient single-aisle aircraft and 8% more fuel-efficient “tomorrow’s competition” – in other words, the Airbus A320neo. This will be achieved through the use of new engines, a redesigned tail cone and winglets to reduce drag.

“The 737 MAX will not only be the most fuel-efficient airplane, it will maintain the 737’s industry-leading reliability,” said Keith Leverkuhn, the 737 MAX’s vice president & program manager. “We are working closely with our customers and industry partners to ensure that the airplane we deliver will perform as promised.”

The B737 MAX series includes three versions – the smaller B737 MAX 7, designed to carry approximately 126 passengers in a standard two-class configuration, the mid-sized B737 MAX 8 (162 passengers) and stretched B737 MAX 9 (180 passengers). Following the B737 MAX 8’s entry into service in 2017, the MAX 7 and MAX 9 versions are expected to following in 2018 and 2019 respectively.

To date, Boeing has taken orders for 1,495 B737 MAXs, including 201 from Indonesia’s Lion Air and 180 from US-based Southwest Airlines.