Boeing’s four commercial aircraft families, from the 737 MAX to the delayed 777X

A worker inspects a Boeing 737 MAX airliner at Renton Airport adjacent to the Boeing Renton Factory in Renton, Washington in this file picture dated November 10, 2020. US officials gave final approval on October 20, 2026 to the Boeing 737 MAX 10, certifying the latest long-delayed version of the popular single-aisle aircraft. — AFP pic

First Published: Thursday, 22 Oct 2026 7:00 AM MYT

NEW YORK, Oct 22 — US aviation giant Boeing’s commercial plane fleet is composed of four different aircraft families. The company had 6,863 plane orders at the end of September.

The 737 MAX, the most popular 

The single-aisle jet, first launched in August 2011, emits fewer greenhouse gas emissions than earlier aircraft and is designed to be half as noisy.

Boeing has sold more 737 planes than any other family, but the aircraft was dethroned by Airbus’ A320 as the most-sold plane in October 2025.

There are four versions of the MAX, ranging from the smallest, the 737 MAX 7, to the largest — the 737 MAX 10. US authorities certified both models in 2026.

The MAX 7 can fly up to 7,040 kilometers (4,400 miles) while the MAX 10 can fly up to 5,740 kilometers (3,600 miles). Both are expected to enter airline fleets in 2027.

The other two models are currently in use.  The 737 MAX 8 was responsible for two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019 in which 346 people died.

According to aviation publication Leeham News, Boeing amassed nearly $44 billion in special charges between 2018 and 2025 for all commercial jets, with the MAX responsible for around half.

The 787 Dreamliner 

First coming into use in 2011, this type of plane has transported some 1.3 billion passengers.

The plane, known for greater fuel efficiency than earlier models, is the fastest-selling wide-body aircraft in aviation history.

Boeing says the aircraft’s onboard systems monitor the operational state of the vessel, signaling if maintenance is needed.

There are three versions of the plane, carrying between 200 and 375 passengers. They can fly to peak distances of between 13,890 kilometers (8,600 miles) and 15,370 kilometers (9,550 miles).

Since 2021, Boeing consolidated production of the jet to South Carolina, where the company is adding a second assembly line.

The 777X, the newest 

Boeing has faced numerous delays on the 777X, the latest generation of the long-range, 777 aircraft, the most-built wide-body aircraft.

Boeing unveiled the most recent incarnation of the jet, the 777X, in 2013.

Deliveries were originally targeted for 2020, but the company has hit numerous obstacles during the certification process. The company is now targeting 2027 deliveries, but the aircraft is still not certified.

There are three versions, seating between 350 and 450 people. Maximum distances ranges from 14,820 kilometers (9,200 miles) to 17,590 kilometers (10,900 miles).

The 777-8 is considered a direct rival of the Airbus A350-1000.

The 767 family 

First certified in the 1980s, this aircraft has a long history of flying transcontinental routes. Boeing still builds new 767 jets for cargo work and in a military version known as the KC-46. — AFP