The U.S. government is expected to announce certification of Boeing’s 737 Max 10 on Tuesday, potentially clearing the way for the company to begin delivering its largest 737 Max variant to airlines. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is scheduled to announce the decision during an afternoon visit to Boeing’s manufacturing facility in Everett, Washington, according to a Transportation Department official who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

The aircraft, which can accommodate up to 230 passengers, was unveiled at the 2017 Paris Air Show as Boeing sought to strengthen its position against European rival Airbus. However, technical issues and safety concerns have delayed approval for years. Boeing has said it expects to begin delivering the Max 10 to customers in 2027.

The jet is designed to compete with Airbus’ A321neo family, which entered service in 2017. While the largest A321neo can carry more passengers and fly farther without refueling, Boeing is positioning the Max 10 as a fuel-efficient option capable of carrying more people than older aircraft. That could appeal to airlines facing higher operating costs, including rising jet fuel prices amid the U.S. war with Iran.

Certification would mark an important step in Boeing’s efforts to restore its reputation and strengthen its financial position after years of safety, manufacturing and quality problems. Two fatal crashes involving the smaller 737 Max 8 in 2018 and 2019 killed 346 people. In 2024, a door-plug panel detached from an Alaska Airlines 737 Max 9 during flight, renewing scrutiny of the company’s production standards.

The Federal Aviation Administration overhauled its oversight of Boeing following the deadly crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia. More recently, regulators have gradually eased some production restrictions, increasing the number of aircraft Boeing is permitted to build. In July, the FAA also said Boeing could again assume responsibility for certifying all of its 737 Max and 787 aircraft.

Approval of the Max 10 would complete the certification process for Boeing’s four 737 Max variants. The agency cleared the smaller Max 7 for airline operations in August, leaving the Max 10 as the final model awaiting approval.

If the anticipated decision goes ahead, Boeing would gain a significant opportunity to expand its commercial aircraft lineup as it continues working to regain airline customers’ confidence and challenge Airbus in the competitive single-aisle jet market.