Boeing has launched the 737 Max 7 aircraft, equipped with the most advanced engine, the LEAP-1B built by CFM International Inc.

Boeing in a statement today said Dallas-based Southwest Airlines became the first carrier to order the third member of the 737 Max family, when it converted 30 existing orders for Next-Generation 737s into the 737 Max 7 with first delivery expected in 2019.

The additional orders would take the total bookings from Southwest Airlines to 180 aircraft from the 737 Max family and 137 Next-Generation 737s.

"The 737 Max 7 builds on the strength of today's next-generation 737-700, incorporating the latest CFM International LEAP-1B engines, which are expected to reduce fuel burn and carbon dioxide emission by an additional 12 per cent," Boeing said.

The United States-based aircraft manufacturer said with the improvement in the engine, the 737 Max 7 has an extended range over the 737-700 by approximately 741 kilometres.

Boeing has to date received 1,315 orders for the 737 Max family.