Originally Posted by
WNCrew
No, this is a 175 seat aircraft just as the -800 is (max certified capacity is 189). The MAX8 can only hold over 189 if it's configured as-such (MAX200) which is a MAX8 with an auxiliary exit behind the wings on both sides, something WN hasn't ordered. This would also change the internal galley config (which was designed around 175 and is currently being built) and change the seat pitch which is a hard 31"-32" .
The MAX8 with an active auxiliary exit (and 5th FA) can accommodate 200, and the MAX9 with an active auxiliary exit can accommodate 215 (again, with a 5th FA).
Thanks for the clarification. I wasn't sure which configuration they plan to order. The MAX9 is not in the reopener section. Still the -800 and MAX8 are significantly larger than the -700 so some additional compensation would be in order. The turn times alone with these airframes warrant it.