The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted long-awaited final approval for the operation of the Boeing 737 MAX 10 passenger aircraft. The decision clears the way for American aircraft manufacturer Boeing to deliver the largest passenger-capacity variant of the 737 MAX family to its customers.

Boeing expects the MAX 10 to help increase revenue and support the company’s continued recovery following financial difficulties in recent years. The aircraft’s entry into service has been delayed several times.

According to aviation analysis company IBA, airlines have already ordered more than 1,550 MAX 10 aircraft. The model accounts for 31 percent of Boeing’s total outstanding orders for the 737 family.

The MAX 10 plays an important role in Boeing’s competition with European manufacturer Airbus in the lucrative narrow-body passenger aircraft market. China’s COMAC C919 currently remains well behind these two major manufacturers.

Boeing has been seeking certification for the 737 MAX 10 since the early 2020s. The largest member of the MAX family can accommodate up to 230 passengers. By comparison, the MAX 9 can carry up to 195 passengers, while the MAX 7 has a capacity of up to 160.

Delays in the certification process have allowed Airbus to strengthen its position in this market. As a result, the Airbus A321neo has secured a larger share of the market for larger narrow-body passenger aircraft.

The arrival of a new aircraft with increased passenger capacity is important for the expansion plans of several airlines. Major customers that have ordered the MAX 10 include United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Ryanair, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines.

Boeing has already manufactured several examples of the model, which are awaiting delivery to customers. Official approval for operation marks an important milestone in bringing the aircraft to market. The next steps will depend on production plans and the schedule for delivering the aircraft to customers.