Boeing Developing New Single-Aisle Plane to Replace 737 Max Aircraft

Boeing is reportedly developing a new single-aisle airplane to replace the 737 Max, which has faced safety issues. CEO Kelly Ortberg met with Rolls-Royce Holdings officials to discuss a new engine, and the company is also designing the flight deck of the new aircraft. The new plane is still in the early stages of development. Boeing is currently focused on its recovery plan and delivering existing aircraft.

Boeing (BA) is reportedly working on a new single-aisle aircraft that could succeed the 737 Max, as the company seeks to regain market share lost to rival Airbus. According to The Wall Street Journal, CEO Kelly Ortberg met with Rolls-Royce executives in the UK to discuss a new engine for the aircraft. This development follows a series of quality issues that have plagued the 737 Max since its launch in 2017, including a grounding period in 2019 and a production cap due to a cabin panel blowout on an Alaska Airlines flight in January 2024 Boeing Is Reportedly Working on 737 Max Successor. Here’s Why That Matters.^[1].

The new aircraft is still in the early stages of development, with Boeing focusing on restoring production credibility and delivering its backlog of 6,000 jets. The company is also working to certify the 737 MAX 7 and 10, as well as addressing delays in its widebody 777X project. However, there is progress, as the FAA is set to partially restore Boeing's ability to self-certify the airworthiness of some 737 MAX and 787 aircraft for delivery Leaked: Boeing Designing 737 MAX Replacement—Failure Isn’t an Option This Time^[2].

Boeing's new aircraft is expected to compete with Airbus' A320neo/XLR, with two potential fuselage sizes: a ~170-seat version to replace the 737-8/9 and a ~220-240 seat version to compete with the A321. The new plane is anticipated to offer 20% greater efficiency than current single-aisle jets, with a focus on modern cockpit design and maintainability. The company aims to launch the program and firm design details, supplier contracts, and a new assembly line by 2030-2033, with first deliveries expected around 2035 Leaked: Boeing Designing 737 MAX Replacement—Failure Isn’t an Option This Time^[2].

While Boeing's recovery plan is focused on delivering existing aircraft and restoring production credibility, the development of a new single-aisle aircraft could provide an added catalyst for the company's shares, which have risen about 20% this year. However, the company must demonstrate structural reform in quality, engineering authority, and certification transparency to avoid certification delays and build trust with regulators and airlines Leaked: Boeing Designing 737 MAX Replacement—Failure Isn’t an Option This Time^[2].