How A 5-Minute Cockpit Rule Is Leaving Southwest Airlines' 300+ Boeing 737 MAX 7 Orders Stranded

The debate over a five-minute cockpit procedure is putting Southwest Airlines’ more-than-300 Boeing 737 MAX 7 orders in limbo. The core issue involves the anti-ice system on the LEAP-1B engines, where continued use under certain dry, warm conditions can overheat the carbon-composite inlet. Engineering analysis points to danger mainly between 20,000 and 30,000 feet in dry air around 50°F, risking inlet damage and debris striking the fuselage. Boeing has sought a time-limited FAA exemption while a permanent redesign is developed, arguing crews could safely operate with procedures that limit anti-ice use. Reports indicate MAX 8 and MAX 9 crews deactivate anti-ice after five minutes, with pilots allegedly relying on cockpit post-it notes as reminders.