Boeing 737 MAX 9

Technical Specifications

• Total seats: 193 typical configuration
• Range: 6,570 km / 4,082 mi
• Cruise speed: 839 km/h
• Wingspan: 36 m
• Length: 43 m
• Engines: 2× CFM LEAP-1B

Cabin Features

• Economy seat pitch: 30–31 in (76–79 cm)
• In-flight Wi-Fi: Available on most configurations
• Power outlets: AC/USB available
• Lie-flat beds: Not typically equipped

Seat Selection Overview

The Boeing 737 MAX 9 is the longest variant of the current 737 MAX family, seating up to 220 passengers. United and Alaska are the largest US operators. It features the same LEAP engine and interior improvements as the MAX 8 but with greater capacity. Note: the MAX 9 was briefly grounded in early 2024 after a door plug incident on an Alaska Air flight.

Best Seats on the 737 MAX 9

• Economy Plus seats: United's Economy Plus and Alaska's Premium Class sections on the MAX 9 offer meaningfully more legroom. Worth it for flights over 2.5 hours.
• Exit rows: Multiple exit row positions on the longer MAX 9 fuselage — more opportunities for legroom upgrades.

Seats to Avoid on the 737 MAX 9

• Rows near the rear door plug (mid-cabin exit area): On MAX 9 aircraft, the mid-fuselage door plug area has been reinforced post-2024 incident. Structurally safe, but some passengers prefer to avoid those rows for peace of mind.

Pro Tips

• The 2024 Alaska Air door plug incident involved row 26 on the MAX 9 (a mid-exit door plug). Boeing and airlines have since reinforced all door plugs — the aircraft is structurally safe. The incident increased FAA scrutiny on MAX 9 maintenance.
• Alaska's MAX 9 fleet was retrofitted with newer seatback screens and improved cabin interiors.

Frequently Asked Questions