Boeing’s 737 Max airplane will fly in the sky once again.
On Wednesday, the Federal Aviation Administration cleared the aircraft model for flight after two deadly crashes grounded all flights from the 737 Max in March 2019. The crashes, which occurred in Ethiopia and Indonesia, killed 376 passengers.
“The design and certification of this aircraft included an unprecedented level of collaborative and independent reviews by aviation authorities around the world. Those regulators have indicated that Boeing’s design changes, together with the changes to crew procedures and training enhancements, will give them the confidence to validate the aircraft as safe to fly in their respective countries and regions,” the FAA’s statement said.
“Following the return to service, the FAA will continue to work closely with our foreign civil aviation partners to evaluate any potential additional enhancements for the aircraft. The agency also will conduct the same rigorous, continued operational safety oversight of the MAX that we provide for the entire U.S. commercial fleet,” the statement continued.
The cause of the crashes was a safety feature put in the plane to prevent it from climbing too fast and stalling. However, the feature inadvertently forced the noses of the planes downward.
Boeing released a statement that outlined a series of safety changes, which included installing new software enhancements, conducting pilot training, and completing wire separation modifications.
“We will never forget the lives lost in the two tragic accidents that led to the decision to suspend operations,” said Boeing Company CEO David Calhoun. “These events and the lessons we have learned as a result have reshaped our company and further focused our attention on our core values of safety, quality, and integrity.”
The changes are expected to take weeks to months to implement, but they are required for the grounded planes to see the skies.
