United Airlines Considers Fleet Plans Without Boeing 737 Max 10 After Delays and Grounding, CEO Says
United Airlines is reevaluating its fleet plans and considering excluding the Boeing 737 Max 10 from its future aircraft lineup. The decision comes after a series of delays and the recent grounding of the smaller variant of the plane. United CEO Scott Kirby expressed frustration at Boeing for the ongoing manufacturing problems and delays, stating that the Max 10 is already “best case” about five years delayed.
The Max 10, which is the largest model of the Boeing 737, has not yet been certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The grounding of the smaller Max 9 variant further exacerbated United’s concerns. The FAA grounded the Max 9 planes after a door plug blew out during an Alaska Airlines flight on January 5. United currently has 79 of the 737 Max 9 aircraft in its fleet, more than any other carrier.
The grounding of the Max 9 planes will have a significant impact on United’s financial performance, with the airline expecting a first-quarter loss. Despite previously outlining cabin plans for the approximately 100 Max 10s it had ordered, United now intends to develop a fleet plan that does not include the Max 10.
United’s CEO, Scott Kirby, expressed his disappointment with the situation in an interview on CNBC’s “Squawk Box.” He stated, “I think the Max 9 grounding is probably the straw that broke the camel’s back for us. We’re going to at least build a plan that doesn’t have the Max 10 in it.” Kirby had previously announced in August 2018 that United expected to fly the Max 10s by 2020, as they would help replace some of their older jets.
In contrast to United’s decision, Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian confirmed his confidence in moving forward with his airline’s order of Boeing Max 10s. Boeing, on the other hand, did not comment specifically on the Max 10 but stated that they are taking action to bring the Max 9 planes safely back to service and improve their quality and delivery performance.
The ongoing issues with the Boeing 737 Max series have caused significant disruptions in the aviation industry. Airlines around the world have faced delays, cancellations, and financial losses due to the grounding of these aircraft. The FAA’s certification process and Boeing’s manufacturing problems have raised concerns about the safety and reliability of the Max series.
As United Airlines reevaluates its fleet plans, it remains to be seen how this decision will impact their operations and future growth. The airline industry continues to navigate the challenges posed by the grounding of the Max series, and airlines are exploring alternative options to ensure the safety and satisfaction of their passengers.
