Long-haul flights are among changes being considered by the US carrier, according to sources familiar with its plans

Approval had been expected within days, but regulator says largest MAX variant will not be certified until flight management computer problem is resolved

Southwest Airlines expects first deliveries only near the end of 2026 as Boeing prepares 27 previously built aircraft

Southwest Airlines will become the first operator of the smallest MAX variant, which has accumulated 282 firm orders

FAA and EASA officials say final approval process is approaching completion for the two remaining MAX variants

Certification effort targets delayed entry into service as combined backlog reaches 1,680 aircraft

Regulator denies being the main obstacle as certification delays persist

Carrier maintains fleet plans without the new aircraft as regulatory delays continue to impact Boeing’s production and delivery schedules

Manufacturer still working on fix for engine inlet overheating problem affecting MAX family

Traditional Boeing customer said it intends to order at least 20 aircraft, but did not disclose a deadline for decision