On Friday, Boeing's latest version of its 737 MAX made its first test flight. This was the beginning of a comprehensive test program.
The aerospace behemoth’s MAX 10 took off near Seattle. 737 chief pilot captain Jennifer Henderson said the airplane performed "beautifully". According to Henderson, the profile flown allowed the team to test the airplane's systems, flight controls and handling qualities, and all of these met expectations.
The next steps of the testing program will involve Boeing working closely with regulators to certify the airplane. It is expected to enter service in 2023.
The 737-10 has a capacity of 230 passengers. It lowers noise by 50% and cuts carbon emissions by 14% compared to Next-Generation 737s (737NGs).