Boeing expects next-aircraft development will accelerate as certification work winds down

Boeing says the work needed to certify its remaining 737 Max and 777-9 programs is set to wind down soon enough that the company can shift resources to developing a next-generation aircraft. Boeing Commercial Airplanes chief executive Stephanie Pope said in London that ramping up development after completing certifications of the 737 Max 7, 737 Max 10 and 777-9 would allow the airline maker to “roll off” engineering capability to future product work. Boeing expects FAA certification for the Max 7 this summer and for the Max 10 before year-end, with 777-9 deliveries starting next year. Pope tied Boeing’s financial readiness to improving the 737 Max, including raising production from 42 to 47 per month as it opens a fourth Everett line.