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What to do with all those Boeing 737 Max 10 seats it ordered years ago
United Airlines is grappling with a substantial question regarding the fate of hundreds of lie-flat seats ordered for the Boeing 737 Max 10, which has experienced prolonged certification delays. Originally slated to enter service by 2020, the anticipated approval for the Max 10 is now projected for summer 2027. This has led United to consider the compatibility and potential layout of these seats, with CEO Scott Kirby admitting uncertainty about their integration as they do not fit on other aircraft. Meanwhile, the airline pivoted towards outfitting its Airbus A321neo planes with the new Polaris suites as an alternative.
MonitorConfidence: MediumMedium term horizonRegulatory risk: High
Published 23 Aug 2026, 12:55 UTC2 min read
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Summary
TL;DR
- United Airlines has 167 Boeing 737 Max 10 aircraft on order.
- Certification delays have left seats for the Max 10 in storage since 2018.
- Boeing's new anti-icing system caused approval delays.
- Approval for the smaller Max 7 was secured earlier this month.
- United's new Airbus A321neo subfleet aims to compete in premium seating.
Interesting facts
- The Boeing 737 Max 10 is the largest in the 737 Max family.
- United had planned transcontinental routes featuring lie-flat seats.
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