CHICAGO (AP) -- Boeing is sending its strongest signals yet that it plans to build a new plane to replace its 737.
Boeing CEO James McNerney told analysts on Thursday, "We're going to do a new airplane." He then seemed to backtrack a little, saying the company is leaning toward building a whole new airplane, rather than putting new engines on the 737. After McNerney spoke, the company Tweeted that it expects to have more clarity by the middle of this year on its plans for the 737.
Boeing builds more 737s than any other model. Airlines have been watching closely to see whether Boeing would upgrade it with new engines, or build an all-new plane. Boeing has said previously that it is leaning toward a new plane.