B737 max latest news
Here are the latest news and updates on the Boeing 737 MAX:
Recent Developments:
- FAA Approves 737 MAX to Return to Service: On November 18, 2020, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an Airworthiness Directive (AD) allowing the 737 MAX to return to service in the United States. The AD requires airlines to implement software updates and conduct additional pilot training.
- European Union Approves 737 MAX Return to Service: On November 26, 2020, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) also approved the 737 MAX to return to service in Europe.
- Boeing Delivers First 737 MAX Since Grounding: On December 8, 2020, Boeing delivered its first 737 MAX since the grounding in March 2019 to Southwest Airlines.
- 737 MAX Returns to Service in Canada: On December 22, 2020, Air Canada became the first Canadian airline to operate the 737 MAX since the grounding.
Ongoing Investigations and Litigation:
- Ethiopian Airlines Crash Investigation: The investigation into the Ethiopian Airlines crash on March 10, 2019, is ongoing. The Ethiopian Transport Ministry has released a preliminary report, which found that the plane's MCAS system was activated due to a faulty sensor.
- Lion Air Crash Investigation: The investigation into the Lion Air crash on October 29, 2018, is also ongoing. The Indonesian National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT) has released a preliminary report, which found that the plane's MCAS system was activated due to a faulty sensor.
- Lawsuits and Compensation: Boeing is facing numerous lawsuits and compensation claims from families of the victims of the two crashes. The company has set aside $4.5 billion to cover potential compensation claims.
Industry and Regulatory Response:
- FAA Reforms: The FAA has implemented reforms to improve the certification process for new aircraft, including the 737 MAX. The reforms include the creation of a new office to oversee the certification process and the implementation of more stringent testing and validation procedures.
- Industry Response: The aviation industry has responded to the 737 MAX crisis by implementing additional safety measures, including enhanced pilot training and the development of new safety protocols.
- Regulatory Oversight: Regulatory agencies around the world have increased their oversight of Boeing and the 737 MAX, including the FAA, EASA, and Transport Canada.
Public Perception and Impact:
- Public Trust: The 737 MAX crisis has had a significant impact on public trust in Boeing and the aviation industry as a whole. Many passengers have expressed concerns about the safety of the aircraft and the certification process.
- Economic Impact: The grounding of the 737 MAX has had a significant economic impact on Boeing, airlines, and the broader aviation industry. The crisis has also led to a decline in air travel demand and a decrease in airline profitability.
- Rebuilding Trust: Boeing and the aviation industry are working to rebuild trust with the public by implementing additional safety measures, improving transparency, and enhancing communication.
I hope this provides a comprehensive update on the latest news and developments related to the Boeing 737 MAX.