Boeing Faces Continued Production Hurdles, FAA Cap Remains as Southwest Airlines CEO Expresses Uncertainty on Max 7 Deliveries
WICHITA, KS – July 28, 2025 – Boeing’s efforts to stabilize production and regain customer confidence are ongoing, but significant challenges persist, notably concerning the 737 Max program. Southwest Airlines CEO Bob Jordan indicated that the airline is not anticipating the delivery of the Max 7 model in 2026, a progress that could impact airline profitability due to the critical balance of aircraft seats.
“They’re working the right problems. The consistency of deliveries is much better,” Jordan stated in a recent interview. “But there’s no update on the Max 7. We’re assuming we are not flying it in 2026.”
Despite improvements in delivery consistency, Boeing, under the leadership of new CEO Dave Ortberg, is still operating under a Federal Aviation Governance (FAA) cap of 38 Max aircraft per month. to increase production beyond this rate to a target of 42 per month, Boeing requires FAA approval. Industry analysts suggest that discussions regarding this production increase are imminent, with a rate of 47 aircraft per month being a more challenging benchmark. Boeing reportedly holds significant inventory to support higher production volumes.
Beyond the 737 Max,Boeing’s defense division has also encountered difficulties. This unit oversees programs such as the KC-46 tanker and the Air Force One fleet. the latter has faced public criticism, including from former President Donald Trump, who expressed frustration over delays and even explored the possibility of using a refurbished Qatari Boeing 747 as a presidential aircraft. Ortberg replaced the head of the defense unit last fall.
Industry observers note that Boeing is “not totally out of the woods.” Furthermore, some within the aviation sector believe that Boeing and Ortberg should prioritize the development of a new aircraft. The company’s best-selling 737 model frist entered service in 1967,and prior to the 737 Max crashes,Boeing had been exploring a midsize jetliner. There is a sentiment that the company should accelerate plans for a new aircraft, with Ortberg seen as the leader capable of driving such an initiative.