SEATTLE, Washington — 9 March 2017 — Boeing today announced that the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has certified the 737 MAX 8 airplane powered by CFM International LEAP-1B engines for commercial service. Boeing is now in the final stages of preparing for the first 737 MAX 8 delivery to customers in the coming months.
"Our relationship with Boeing on the 737 goes back to more than 35 years and we are proud and honored to be part of the MAX program," said Gaël Méheust, CFM president and CEO. "Congratulations to everyone at Boeing on achieving this significant milestone."
The LEAP-1B-powered Boeing 737 MAX began flight tests in January 2016 and the engine has performed exceptionally well with more than 2,200 aircraft flight hours. CFM achieved engine certification in May 2016.