Southwest cites ‘frustration’ over 737 Max certification delays

Southwest is frustrated by the slow pace of federal certification of Boeing’s smallest 737 Max jet, an issue that could delay the carrier’s commercial debut of the aircraft late into next year. The concern stems from changes by the US FAA and lawmakers giving regulators a larger role in the certification, drawing out that process, Southwest executives said Friday. Previously, Boeing had been allowed to oversee more safety decisions. “Frustration is the right word,” CEO Gary Kelly said of the delays. “It’s a different regulatory environment. A lot of duties that used to be delegated are vested with the FAA, and they are just getting used to that.” The FAA doesn’t discuss details of ongoing projects, but it signs off on certification once it’s satisfied standards have been met, the agency said in an emailed statement. Boeing didn’t immediately have a response. The Max 7, the smallest version of Boeing’s single-aisle workhorse, is a centerpiece of Southwest’s plans to revamp its fleet with newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft. The carrier is the top customer for Max jets, with 660 on order, including more than 230 Max 7 aircraft. The planes are more fuel efficient than the 737-700s they will replace, and have more seats. <br/>