The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration has granted Boeing (NYSE: BA) an amended type certificate for the 737-7 airplane, clearing the aircraft for commercial service, according to a company press release dated Aug. 3, 2026.

The 737-7 is the smallest and longest-range variant in the 737 MAX family, seating 135 to 160 passengers in a two-class configuration with a range of up to 3,800 nautical miles (7,040 km). Boeing states the aircraft reduces fuel use and CO2 emissions by 20% and noise footprint by 50% compared to the airplanes it typically replaces.

The certification follows a multi-year testing program that began in 2018 and included more than 1,000 hours of flight and ground testing, system safety analysis, human factors reviews, and an update to the engine anti-ice system to address a condition identified during flight testing. The FAA also updated Boeing Production Certificate No. 700 to include the 737-7.

"This important certification validates the rigor of our airplane's design," said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

Boeing and Southwest Airlines, the 737-7 launch customer, are preparing for first deliveries. Boeing said a team is readying the first airplanes, including implementing updates to the final configuration.

The broader 737 MAX family order book stands at more than 7,200 airplanes, of which more than 2,300 have been delivered through the end of June 2026. Boeing said it is working to certify the 737-10, the largest variant in the family, this year.