Boeing Plans 737 MAX Replacement

In the shadows, Boeing is progressing with the slowed development of a new single-aisle jet to replace the 737 MAX.

With a desire for information on how the future of the aircraft will be powered, Boeing has specifically issued an RFI to evaluate advanced ducted propulsion systems.

Much of the current interest from panemakers surrounding new aircraft revolves around innovation being at the forefront, and more specifically, what engines will power the type alongside its wing structure.

As sustainability initiatives continue to gain prominence, the efficiency and ability to meet global regulations with the following aircraft produced by Boeing will be crucial.

Boeing is not adhering to firm timelines for the launch of a 737 MAX replacement; however, it remains in a position where it can devote some slight focus on innovation.

Despite this focus on innovation, Boeing is also aware that it has many other areas that need to improve before it can truly progress with the launch of a new product; indeed, its financial position is one of the most integral.

Unfortunately, for Boeing, their position is far from optimal and is directly tied to the consistent production of the 737 MAX, which has seen restrictions placed by the FAA that are yet to be lifted.

Even though complexities exist in the business, Boeing is not naive; internally, it knows that progress needs to be made for when new aircraft are ready, and that requires focus now in the mid-2020s.

As the RFI has been put forward, it’s now up to engine manufacturers to find a means to answer the call and provide their plans for the future, in a bid for Boeing to understand better the direction it wishes to head in terms of powering the new aircraft.

Boeing To Face Competition

While Boeing works in the shadows, the American planemaker ultimately faces intense competition from Airbus, which has also identified work on its A320neo replacement.

With a hopeful engine selection expected by the 2027 mark, if all goes according to plan, Airbus hopes to launch this jet in 2030.

After a successful launch, the jet would then enter service around the 2037 mark, which would be over two decades since the launch of the A320neo model, aligning with the desire of airlines to replace the jet.

Airbus knows that while the A320neo family currently occupies a strong position, which is likely to continue, it simply cannot afford to let up. Any momentum it can maintain will allow for greater success in the future with a new model.

What this means is that Boeing also needs to be diligently moving ahead with its own 737 MAX replacement in a bid to avoid falling behind in what is broadly considered a genuine new era for commercial air travel.

However, despite the American planemaker diligently putting in work behind the scenes, with so many other woes affecting progress on even its 737 MAX base models, some resources are taken away from innovation.