FAA Reinstates Boeing’s Certification Authority for 737 MAX & 787 Aircraft
In a significant milestone for Boeing’s recovery, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced on September 29, 2025, that it will restore the aerospace giant’s limited authority to issue airworthiness certificates for select 737 MAX and 787 aircraft. This marks the first time Boeing has been permitted to self-certify these aircraft since losing the authority in 2019 for the 737 MAX following the Lion Air and Ethiopian Airlines crashes, and in 2022 for the 787 due to production quality issues.
Under the new arrangement, Boeing and the FAA will alternate weekly in issuing airworthiness certificates. This strategy ensures continued oversight while freeing up FAA inspectors to focus on other critical production oversight activities. “Safety drives everything we do, and the FAA will only allow this step forward because we are confident it can be done safely,” the agency stated. The decision follows a thorough review of Boeing’s ongoing production quality improvements and renewed Organization Designation Authorization for three years.
Industry analysts view this development as positive for Boeing’s production capabilities and potential delivery improvements. However, the FAA maintains strict oversight with inspectors continuing to monitor critical assembly stages and Boeing’s Safety Management System.
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Source: FAA Statement on Boeing Airworthiness Certificates