Boeing Developing 737 MAX Successor

Boeing is in early-stage development of a next-generation single-aisle/narrowbody aircraft intended to succeed the 737 MAX, with internal design work underway and exploratory talks with engine makers. CEO Kelly Ortberg met with Rolls‑Royce this year and Boeing designers are reported to be working on a new flight deck, but sources say the program is preliminary and no final decisions have been made. The initiative aims to close Boeing's narrowbody sales gap with Airbus and follows a contractual commitment to build the company's next new airplane in the Puget Sound region. Boeing says its recovery plan is progressing, prioritizing certification and delivery of roughly 6,000 backlogged commercial jets, and the company has recently secured orders and delivered aircraft to several carriers. Regulators remain cautious: the FAA previously stripped Boeing of self-inspection authority after MAX crashes and production problems and may restore phased safety sign-off powers for some 737 MAX jets while retaining final airworthiness certification.