FAA continues review on Boeing's monthly cap for 737 MAX production

FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford commented on Boeing’s progress: "Progress is being made. It may not be as fast perhaps as Boeing would like but it is as fast as we can reasonably move through the process. This is going to be a bottom-up process - front-line FAA team that's really on them to make the recommendation of whether they feel like we've reached some of the milestones that would warrant any kind of change. None of those recommendations have come up yet. That tells me the work is still ongoing."

The issues with quality assurance prompted a halt in production and grounding of the global fleet until causes were identified and corrected. Investigations focused on autopilot software and sensor functionality before resuming operations under stricter oversight.

Boeing is nearing completion of its acquisition of Spirit Aerosystems, its fuselage supplier, with hopes this will allow an increase in output. The certification delays for new variants are linked to engine de-icing concerns and risks of smoke or fumes entering cabins during overheating events—issues expected to be resolved by year-end.

Major customers such as Southwest, Emirates, and United await delivery of large numbers of uncertified aircraft models once regulatory approval is secured.

Tabletop planning exercises between Boeing and the FAA are scheduled to demonstrate crisis response capabilities while maintaining quality standards. If successful, Boeing aims not only to restore its production levels but also improve its competitive position against Airbus in terms of deliveries.