Boeing has quietly started developing a successor to its 737 MAX, aiming to reclaim market share from Airbus with a new single-aisle jet by the late 2030s, according to a September 29, 2025 report by The Wall Street Journal.
This move signals a pivotal shift for the aerospace giant, which is navigating a challenging recovery from the 737 MAX’s troubled history while addressing competitive pressures in the commercial aviation sector.
A Clean-Sheet Design for the Future
The project, still in its infancy, involves early-stage planning for a twin-engine, narrow-body aircraft designed to replace the 737 MAX, the backbone of Boeing’s commercial fleet.
The WSJ reports that Boeing is exploring a “clean-sheet” design, moving away from the 737’s 1960s roots.
This new jet would prioritize fuel efficiency, extended range, and lower operating costs to compete with Airbus’s dominant A320 family, particularly its next-generation A321XLR successor.
The development is expected to span over a decade, with costs potentially reaching tens of billions of dollars.
Boeing’s internal teams are already working on concepts for a modernized flight deck, a critical component for pilot usability and safety.
The company has also initiated exploratory talks with engine manufacturers, marking a potential shift from its long-standing reliance on CFM International, a GE-Safran joint venture that powers the 737 MAX.
Notably, Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg met with Rolls-Royce officials earlier this year to discuss a new engine promising up to 20% better fuel efficiency, per the recent report.
This could position the new jet as a game-changer in the single-aisle market, which dominates short- to medium-haul routes globally.
Context of Challenges and Recovery
Boeing’s push for a new aircraft comes amid ongoing recovery efforts following the 737 MAX’s grounding in 2019 after two fatal crashes that killed 346 people.
A 2024 Alaska Airlines door-plug incident further intensified scrutiny, leading to an FAA-imposed production cap of 38 planes per month.
Despite these setbacks, Boeing secured nearly 6,000 commercial orders, including recent deals with Norwegian Air Shuttle and Turkish Airlines, and regained partial FAA certification authority on September 26, 2025, per the WSJ.
However, certifying the 737-7, 737-10, and 777-9 remains Boeing’s immediate priority.
Strategic Imperative or Risky Move?
The decision to explore a 737 MAX successor is seen as a strategic necessity to avoid losing ground to Airbus, which commands a strong lead in the single-aisle market.
Aviation analysts cited by the WSJ argue that failing to plan for a new aircraft could be “corporate malpractice,” given the 737’s aging design.
Yet, some question the timing, as Boeing grapples with production and quality challenges. The company has not officially confirmed the project but told the WSJ it is evaluating markets and technologies to prepare for future products.
Looking Ahead
Boeing’s early work on a 737 MAX successor reflects a long-term vision to restore its competitive edge.
While details remain scarce, the focus on efficiency and innovation could reshape the single-aisle market.
For now, Boeing must balance this ambitious project with its immediate goals of stabilizing production and regaining trust.
