Boeing completes firm configuration of 737 Max 8

Boeing has announced the completion of firm configuration of the 737 Max 8, marking the completion of the major trade studies that define the capabilities of the 737 Max family.

The Chicago-based aircraft manufacturer stated that as the detailed designs are completed and released, the production can now begin.

Final assembly of the 737 Max 8 is slated to commence in 2015 with the first aircraft scheduled for delivery in the third quarter of 2017.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes 737 Max chief project engineer Michael Teal said "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."

Powered by the new Leap-1B engines from CFM International, the 737 Max features a redesigned tail cone and the Boeing designed advanced technology winglet to reduce fuel use.

According to Boeing, the 737 Max reduces fuel burn and CO₂ emissions by 13% and offers an 8% operating cost advantage to operators.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes 737 Max programme vice-president and programme manager Keith Leverkuhn said: "The 737 MAX will not only be the most fuel-efficient airplane, it will maintain the 737’s industry-leading reliability."

The 737 Max family includes the 737 Max 7, 737 Max 8 and 737 Max 9 and will serve the 100 to more than 200-seat segment.

It will extend the Next-Generation 737 range advantage with the capability to fly more than 6,482km, an increase of 741km-1,000km compared with the Next-Generation 737.

The first 737 Max 9 is planned for delivery in 2018 followed by the MAX 7 in 2019.

The 737 Max family has to date logged orders for 1,495 aircraft.

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Image: Boeing stated that the final assembly of the 737 Max 8 is scheduled to commence in 2015. Photo: courtesy of Boeing.