Boeing rolls out first 737 MAX 9

Boeing 737 MAX 9 rolled out in Renton, Washington.

 (Boeing)

Boeing rolled out the first 737 MAX 9, the second variant of the re-engined 737, at its Renton, Washington facility March 7.

The 737 MAX 9, which is 138 ft. and 2 in. long, has a maximum capacity of 220 passengers and a range of 3,515 nm. The aircraft’s first flight is expected “in the coming weeks,” according to Boeing. The CFM International LEAP-1B-powered MAX 9’s debut comes just over 13 months after the MAX 8 achieved first flight.

The 737 MAX 8 is expected to enter service this summer with Norwegian Air Shuttle. Southwest Airlines, which placed the launch order for the 737 MAX, is expected to place its first MAX 8 into service Oct. 1.

The first 737 MAX 9 prototype “now begins system checks, fueling and engine runs on the flight line,” Boeing said. The 737 MAX 9 is scheduled to enter service in 2018.

Boeing has secured more than 3,600 orders for 737 MAX family aircraft from 83 customers, including more than 400 orders for the MAX 9.

(Aaron Karp - ATWOnline News)