Boeing unveils first 737 MAX 7 at its Renton plant

RENTON, Wash. — Thousands of Boeing employees saw the result of their hard work Monday for the first time as the first 737 MAX 7 was unveiled just outside the assembly line in Renton.

“It does take a lot of work to get it out the door,” said Jesse Chastain, a 737 general assembler.  “And it's fun to see it.”

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The 737 MAX 7 is designed to carry 172 passengers and Boeing brags that it has improved range to reach higher altitudes and remote locations all over the world.

With technological improvements, the 737 MAX 7 is able to fly 1,000 nautical miles further than its predecessor and reduce fuel costs by 18 percent per seat.

KIRO 7 asked Boeing workers about their favorite parts of the new plane.

“The engines, the engines are bigger and better looking frankly,” Chastain said.  “They're quieter, that's for sure.”

The engines are LEAP-1B engines.  And one distinct feature is Boeing's advanced technology winglet that has less drag, allowing it to optimize long range flights.  Boeing says they're able to reduce fuel use and CO2 emisions by 14 percent, compared to the Next-Generation 737s.

“I take a lot of pride in my work and hold myself to a high standard,” said Brian Passeau, a general assembler.  “So I know people are safe when they fly.”

Boeing has had more than 4,300 orders from 92 customers for the 737 MAX series, making it the fastest selling airplane in Boeing history.

The plane unveiled Monday will be one of two test planes.  The first 737 MAX 7 in commercial use is scheduled to be delivered to Southwest Airlines early 2019.

Cox Media Group