Boeing Co. said Wednesday that it would deliver the first of its revamped single-aisle jets ahead of schedule, reflecting its progress testing the more-efficient workhorse aircraft.

Ray Conner, chief executive of Boeing's Commercial Airplane unit, told analysts at its annual investor conference that Boeing would deliver the first 737 Max to Southwest Airlines Co. in the first half of 2017, having previously targeted the third quarter of 2017.

Mr. Conner said the company has completed more than 400 hours of aerial tests on the 737 Max, which features new CFM International engines and aerodynamic improvements to provide 14% better fuel efficiency compared with existing jets. Boeing holds nearly 3,100 orders for the new 737 Max.

Write to Jon Ostrower at jon.ostrower@wsj.com

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

May 11, 2016 14:25 ET (18:25 GMT)

Copyright (c) 2016 Dow Jones & Company, Inc.
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