CFM LEAP-1B-powered Boeing 737 MAX 9 takes to the skies

The Boeing 737 MAX 9, powered by advanced LEAP-1B engines, successfully completed a two-hour, 42- minute first flight on April 13, taking off from Renton Field in Renton, Washington, at 10:53 a.m. local time and landing at 1:34 p.m. at Seattle’s Boeing Field. During the mission, the airplane performed tests on flight controls, systems and handling qualities. The 737 MAX 9 is the second aircraft model to begin certification flight testing. The aircraft will now undergo comprehensive flight testing before customer deliveries begin in 2018. The MAX 8 was certified by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration in March of this year and is on track for entry into service by mid-year.