More than eight years after Boeing organised the maiden flight of the 737 MAX 7, US authorities announced Monday that they certified the aircraft. Boeing had originally intended to commence deliveries in 2019 on the 737 MAX 7, which has a maximum of 172 seats. Boeing is also close to winning certification for the 737 MAX 10, the largest in the MAX family with a maximum of 230 seats. Ortberg told analysts last week he did not foresee problems with Boeing's supply chain in lifting monthly MAX production to 52 jets. Boeing in July unveiled a new MAX production line in Everett, Washington that is expected to enable the MAX program to meet 52 airplanes per month.