In spite of the protracted certification process that has delayed the Boeing 737 MAX 7 (737-7) entry to service, Southwest Airlines has stuck by the side of its exclusive aircraft supplier. In recent statements from the executive-level leaders of the airline, prospects are improving for deliveries of the latest and greatest iteration of the world’s most popular jetliner.Southwest Airlines famously operates an exclusively 737-composed fleet and has continued the relationship by placing a staggering 672 firm orders split between MAX 7 and MAX 8 jets. The 737 MAX has been in the spotlight for its issues, but loyal operators like Southwest are still eager to receive the jets on their order books
The 737 MAX 7 and MAX 10 are equally impacted by the current certification delays, but Southwest represents an especially strong interest in the 737-7 to modernize its existing all-Boeing 737 fleet. The two tragic crashes of Lion Air and Ethiopian Airlines 737 MAX 8 jets have contributed to the roughly four-year delays, but currently, the main obstacles are engine issues.
