US low-cost airline Southwest has become the launch customer the third member of the 737 MAX family – the MAX 7 – with an order for 30 of the type.
The MAX 7 is based on the current 737-700. The aircraft will incorporate the CFM International LEAP-1B engines to deliver improved efficiency, extending the range of the 737-700 by approximately 400nm (741 km).
The order, which is a conversion of an existing 737 next-generation commitment, brings Southwest’s total outstanding orders to 180 737 MAX and 137 current model 737s.
Southwest is expected to take delivery of its first 737 MAX 7 in 2019.
