United's Next Decision: What to Do With All Those Boeing 737 Max 10 Seats It Ordered Years Ago
United Airlines wanted to put lie-flat premium seats on its Max 10 planes once they were certified, but that has been delayed by years.
TL;DR
- United Airlines ordered lie-flat premium seats for the Boeing 737 Max 10, which was expected to start flying in 2020.
- Certification of the Boeing 737 Max 10 has been delayed by years, leaving hundreds of premium seats in storage.
- United has pivoted to outfitting other jets, such as its Airbus A321neo fleet, with premium seating.
- The airline has to decide what to do with the unused lie-flat seats as they do not fit on other aircraft.
- Boeing 737 Max 7 and Max 10 models faced delays due to redesigns and increased scrutiny after safety and manufacturing issues.
- The Boeing 737 Max 7 received approval, with Southwest Airlines expecting to fly them in the first half of 2027.
- United expects its first Boeing Max 10s in summer 2027 and has 167 on order.