VIRGINIA- Boeing is reportedly in the early stages of planning a new single-aisle aircraft to replace the 737 MAX, according to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ). The planemaker has begun preliminary design work and discussions with engine makers, though no final decisions have been made.
The 737 MAX entered service in 2017 but was grounded worldwide in 2019 after two deadly crashes in Indonesia (CGK) and Ethiopia (ADD). Since then, Boeing has faced regulatory scrutiny, lawsuits, and criminal investigations, even as it works to stabilize production and deliver a backlog of commercial orders.
Photo: Collins AerospaceBoeing Eyes New Narrow Body Aircraft
The new aircraft concept is part of Boeing’s long-term strategy for recovery and competitiveness. Sources cited in The Wall Street Journal indicate that the company has begun shaping the flight deck design of a future narrow-body jet while exploring next-generation propulsion technology.
Earlier in 2024, Boeing’s leadership, including CEO Kelly Ortberg, met with Rolls-Royce (IATA Code: RR) officials in the United Kingdom to discuss possible engine options.
While Rolls-Royce declined to comment publicly, the discussions suggest Boeing is assessing advanced powerplants that could deliver greater fuel efficiency.
Industry analysts note that Boeing’s decision on whether to proceed will depend heavily on technology readiness, market demand, and the ability to avoid the costly missteps seen with the 737 MAX program.
Photo: Boeing AirplanesThe 737 MAX Legacy
The 737 MAX became one of the most controversial aircraft in modern aviation after two crashes in 2018 and 2019 killed 346 people.
Investigations revealed flaws in the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS) and shortcomings in certification oversight by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The aircraft was grounded for 20 months until the FAA lifted restrictions in late 2020 during the COVID-19 downturn. Even after re-certification, Boeing’s authority to issue airworthiness certificates for the MAX was curtailed until March 2024, when the FAA restored limited approval.
Despite a strong order book, the 737 MAX program continues to struggle with production challenges. In early 2024, the FAA capped Boeing’s output at 38 aircraft per month after a mid-air panel blowout on an Alaska Airlines (AS) 737 MAX jet. Investigators later found that four critical bolts had not been installed.
The incident triggered another Justice Department probe and renewed criticism of Boeing’s compliance with a 2021 deferred prosecution agreement.
Photo: BoeingRecovery and Strategic Priorities
Boeing maintains that its recovery plan remains intact, focusing on delivering nearly 6,000 backlogged commercial aircraft and certifying models already announced, such as the 777X and 737 MAX 10.
The company also seeks to rebuild trust with regulators, airlines, and passengers while addressing quality-control failures exposed in recent years.
Industry experts believe the decision to pursue a clean-sheet narrow-body jet is both a risk and a necessity. Airbus, Boeing’s European rival, continues to dominate the single-aisle market with the A320neo family, which offers airlines attractive operating economics.
Unless Boeing advances a credible new design, analysts warn it risks losing further market share in its most competitive segment.
United Airlines Boeing 737 MAX TAKEOFF from Chicago. Photo: Cado PhotoIndustry Outlook
Developing a new aircraft program typically takes a decade or more, requiring billions of dollars in investment and close collaboration with suppliers. While Boeing is in the preliminary stages, the move signals recognition that the 737 MAX cannot remain its primary single-aisle product indefinitely.
The industry will be watching closely for Boeing’s next steps, especially whether it commits to innovative engine technology or opts for incremental improvements.
Given its regulatory and financial challenges, the timing of this decision will likely shape Boeing’s standing in the global aerospace market for the next two decades.
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