Boeing expects the 737 MAX to return to service in the fourth quarter of this year. The company aims to deliver 400 or more jets in one year following recertification.
In a call about Boeing’s second quarter earnings, Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun said:
Based on our latest assessment, we now expect the necessary regulatory approvals will be obtained in time to report the resumption of deliveries during the fourth quarter. Of course, the actual timing will ultimately be determined by the global regulators.
As for indicating a fourth quarter return to service, Boeing points to a number of recent developments. Earlier this month, it completed the FAA recertification flight tests. Last week, the FAA announced it is going to post a Notice of Proposed Rule Making on the 737 MAX soon. If all subsequent steps are successful, the aircraft will probably return before the end of the year.
Boeing currently has about 450 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft in storage. These planes are all ready for delivery. Production of the MAX is currently on the at a lower rate. If Boeing succeeds in obtaining all the necessary regulatory approvals for the fourth quarter, the company says it aims to deliver the majority of the 450 aircraft in 1 year.