Boeing marked a key milestone as thousands of employees gathered for the debut of the first 737 MAX 10 at the company's Renton, Wash. factory. During a ceremony, Boeing leaders highlighted the team's accomplishments and recognized their efforts in completing production of the newest member of the 737 MAX family.

"Today is not just about a new airplane. It's about the people who design, build and support it," said Mark Jenks, vice president and general manager of the 737 program. "This team's relentless focus on safety and quality shows the commitment we have to our airline customers and every person who flies on a Boeing airplane."

The 737 MAX 10, the largest variant of the MAX family, can seat up to 230 passengers and offers the lowest seat-mile cost of any single-aisle airplane ever produced. The airplane will now undergo system checks and engine runs prior to first flight next year.

"I'm honored to take this airplane on its first flight and show the world what you've put your heart and soul into," 737 chief pilot Jennifer Henderson told the employee crowd.

The 737 MAX 10 currently has more than 550 orders and commitments from more than 20 customers around the globe.

Contributed by Boeing