Boeing pauses some 737 MAX deliveries over wiring issue

Boeing has paused some of its 737 MAX deliveries after discovering wiring damage on an undetermined number of undelivered aircraft, adding another production disruption as the manufacturer works to stabilize output on its best-selling jet.  
 
According to Boeing, the issue stems from a machining error that caused small scratches on wires, and some first-quarter deliveries could be delayed while repairs are completed.  

Speaking on March 10, 2026, at ISTAT Americas in San Diego, 737 program Vice President and General Manager Katie Ringgold said Boeing had paused “ticketing and deliveries” as it worked through the problem. She claimed that the disruption would last days, rather than weeks. Boeing has not disclosed how many airplanes are affected or whether any delivered aircraft contain the damaged wiring.  

In a statement, Boeing declared that all in-service 737 MAX aircraft can continue to operate safely. The company added that, if action is required for aircraft already in airline fleets, it would issue updates through its normal service bulletin process. Boeing said it had informed both the FAA and customers about the problem.  

The company went on to note that it is keeping 737 MAX output at its current rate while technicians rework the affected jets. Reuters reported that Boeing is still building the airplane at the rate of about 42 per month, and has not changed its full-year goal of delivering about 500 737s during 2026.  

The pause comes as Boeing has posted a strong delivery month. The company delivered 51 commercial aircraft in February, including 43 737 MAX jets, its best monthly total in years and its strongest February delivery performance since 2018. Reports suggested that the company had delivered three 737 MAX aircraft in March, but none after March 5.  

Boeing is trying to rebuild confidence in the 737 program after years of quality, certification and supply-chain problems. The FAA still operates a cap on 737 production, and Boeing plans to open a fourth 737 line in Everett, Washington, later this year as it works toward higher output. Boeing is reported to be targeting 50 to 60 737s per month by 2028, with future rate increases still subject to FAA approval.