Physics Challenge Boeing’s Minimalist Approach to 737 Max
Boeing announced design changes to the 737 Max.
Boeing 737 Max designers have integrated the engines with the wing to produce aerodynamic lines similar to those seen on the Dreamliner. (Photo: Boeing)
Boeing 737 Max designers have integrated the engines with the wing to produce aerodynamic lines similar to those seen on the Dreamliner. (Photo: Boeing)

Boeing engineers appear to have kept themselves busy refining the design of the 737 Max since the company announced its intention to re-engine the ubiquitous 737NG with CFM Leap-1B turbofans. Apparently, the laws of physics have challenged Boeing’s ambition to minimize airframe and systems changes, judging by the extent to which it now expects to refine the design to achieve the fuel burn and performance targets it set for itself when it launched the Max last August.