Boeing is reportedly trying to sell canceled 737 MAX orders to airlines such as Delta, it has been reported today. Since the aircraft was grounded one and a half years ago, many orders have been canceled, including for aircraft that have already been built.

The Boeing 737 MAX has now been grounded for around one and a half years. While progress seems to have accelerated recently regarding recertifying the type, many orders for the MAX have already been canceled. As Boeing, like many, initially expected a reasonably short grounding, it kept building aircraft. Around 450 undelivered 737s were in storage in July.

Approaching Delta

According to Reuters, Boeing has approached Delta and other airlines regarding selling 'white tail' 737 MAX airframes. These are aircraft that have already been built for the airline that ordered them. However, since they were made, the orders have either been canceled or the relevant airline has gone out of business.

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Reuters reports that two unnamed sources close to the matter revealed that Boeing had held discussions with Delta to sell it 40 unclaimed 737 MAX aircraft.

Delta Airlines A220
Delta has, historically, been conservative with its growth. Photo: Getty Images

Boeing and Delta declined to comment on the story when contacted by Simple Flying.

Where is recertification at

As mentioned, the 737 MAX has now been grounded for around a year and a half. However, progress is finally being made, with the chief of European regulator EASA recently claiming,

“For the first time in a year and a half I can say there’s an end in sight to work on the MAX.”

As far as current estimates go, many are now expecting the 737 MAX to be recertified within the coming months. It could re-enter service by the end of the year in some territories. Initially, the aircraft will likely be recertified in the USA by the FAA, allowing its US customers to resume domestic routes. These are Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, and United Airlines.

Boeing 737 MAX, Steve Dickson, Recertification
 FAA's Administrator flew the 737 MAX as part of its service return. Photo: Getty Images

Rebuilding trust

However, recertification of the type is only the first hurdle that Boeing will need to cross before the aircraft becomes a popular choice. Some airlines and many passengers will need to have their trust in the aircraft restored.

We can be sure that once recertified, this aircraft will be the most scrutinized design, as every possible leaf has been turned. However, given the prevalence of bad press surrounding the 737 MAX in the early days of its grounding, restoring trust in some passengers will initially be a challenge.

Ryanair chief Michael O'Leary acknowledges this and previously told Simple Flying that no passengers would be forced to fly on the MAX. If they get to the gate and discover that they're flying on the MAX, the airline will probably have a policy where that passenger can decide not to fly for a full refund.

Do you think Delta should take the Boeing 737 MAX? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!