The B737 Max is probably the safest aircraft in recent history. It has a long production and usage for all its models and marques, and has been the subject of a re-certification which has been prolonged, intense, and extensive. Not only has there been a design review of the mechanical, electronics and computer systems, but additional training for the operational crew has been implemented.
The Boeing 737 MAX series has been involved in two major accidents, Lion Air Flight 610 in October 2018 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 in March 2019. Both accidents were caused by a software issue with the aircraft’s flight control system, known as the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS).
As a result of these accidents, the 737 MAX was grounded worldwide for nearly two years, and was only cleared to return to service in November 2020 after extensive safety reviews and upgrades were made to the aircraft.
Boeing has made changes to the MCAS system, as well as other improvements to the aircraft’s design, to prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future. Additionally, pilots must receive special training on the 737 MAX before they can fly the aircraft.
While these changes have been made to improve the safety of the 737 MAX, it’s important to keep in mind that no aircraft is completely safe, and accidents can still happen. However, the aviation industry is constantly working to make flying as safe as possible.
Some additional details about the safety of the Boeing 737 MAX series
Software Upgrades: After the accidents, Boeing made significant changes to the MCAS software, which was identified as the primary cause of the accidents. The MCAS system now receives input from both angle-of-attack sensors, reducing the risk of erroneous activation. It also has additional safeguards to prevent it from activating repeatedly.
Training Requirements: Pilots are now required to undergo specific training on the updated MCAS system and related procedures before flying the 737 MAX. This training includes both classroom instruction and simulator sessions to ensure pilots are familiar with the changes and know how to respond to any potential issues.
Enhanced Safety Features: Boeing has implemented additional safety features in the 737 MAX series. For example, a disagree light has been added to the flight deck to indicate when the angle-of-attack sensors disagree, which can help alert pilots to a potential issue.
Regulatory Approval: Before the 737 MAX was allowed to return to service, it underwent extensive scrutiny and testing by aviation regulators around the world. Authorities such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) carefully reviewed the modifications and conducted their own assessments to ensure the aircraft met the required safety standards.
Independent Reviews: In addition to the regulatory scrutiny, independent third-party experts and aviation organizations have also conducted their own assessments of the 737 MAX’s safety improvements. These reviews aimed to ensure that the necessary changes were made and that the aircraft is safe for operation.
System Redundancy: Boeing has implemented additional redundancy measures in the 737 MAX to enhance safety. For example, the aircraft now uses data from both angle-of-attack sensors to cross-check information and prevent erroneous sensor readings from affecting the flight controls.
Enhanced Pilot Awareness: Boeing has also taken steps to improve pilot awareness and response in critical situations. The revised procedures and training emphasize clear communication and understanding of the aircraft’s systems, ensuring pilots are better equipped to handle any potential issues.
Collaboration with Airlines and Pilots: Boeing has actively engaged with airlines and pilot unions to gather feedback and input in the process of updating the 737 MAX. This collaboration has helped address concerns, incorporate valuable insights from experienced pilots, and ensure a comprehensive approach to enhancing safety.
Independent Review Panels: In the aftermath of the accidents, Boeing established independent review panels consisting of aviation experts and industry stakeholders. These panels conducted thorough evaluations of the aircraft’s design, systems, and certification processes, providing further scrutiny and recommendations for improvements.
Continued Monitoring and Oversight: Following the return to service, the FAA and other global aviation regulators have implemented enhanced monitoring and oversight measures to ensure the ongoing safety of the 737 MAX. This includes regular inspections, audits, and data analysis to identify and address any emerging issues promptly.
Safety Culture and Lessons Learned: The accidents involving the 737 MAX series prompted a broader examination of safety culture within Boeing and the aviation industry as a whole. Lessons learned from these incidents have led to a renewed emphasis on safety, transparency, and open communication to prevent similar issues in the future.
It’s essential to understand that safety is a multifaceted and continuous effort in the aviation industry. The 737 MAX has undergone significant changes and scrutiny to address the issues that led to the accidents. However, individual perspectives on safety can vary, and passengers should consider their own comfort levels and stay informed about the latest developments and official guidance from regulatory authorities.
By Aeropeep Team