CHARLOTTE, N.C., Feb. 1, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- UTC Aerospace Systems and Boeing (NYSE: BA) today celebrated the first flight of the 737 MAX 8 — the first member of Boeing's efficient 737 MAX family — which took to the skies on January 29 from Renton Field near Boeing's 737 Final Assembly plant in Renton, Wash. UTC Aerospace Systems, a unit of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX) is a supplier to the 737 MAX. 

"Congratulations to Boeing on this historic accomplishment," said Dave Gitlin, President, UTC Aerospace Systems. "It has been a privilege to be a part of the 737 MAX journey from conception to the rollout of the first aircraft in December of 2015 to today's first flight. Our team is committed to supporting Boeing on the flight test program through entry into service." 

UTC Aerospace Systems' advanced technology helps to light, land, stop and protect the 737 MAX. The aircraft carries a variety of systems from the company including the electric power system, cabin pressure control, lighting systems, wheels and brakes, landing gear, sensing systems, evacuation slides and fire protection.

The 737 MAX family has 3,072 orders from 62 customers worldwide. Delivery of the first 737 MAX is scheduled for the third quarter of 2017.

UTC Aerospace Systems designs, manufactures and services integrated systems and components for the aerospace and defense industries.  UTC Aerospace Systems supports a global customer base, with significant worldwide manufacturing and customer service facilities. Follow the company on Twitter: @utcaerosystems

United Technologies Corp., based in Farmington, Connecticut, provides high-technology systems and services to the building and aerospace industries. To learn more about UTC, visit the website at www.utc.com or follow the company on Twitter: @UTC.

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SOURCE UTC Aerospace Systems