How many MAX planes are affected by the sensor mandate?

Question

Accepted Answer

FAA Certifies Boeing 737 MAX 7 Amidst Ongoing Scrutiny

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has certified the Boeing 737 MAX 7 aircraft, marking a significant step for the manufacturer after a period of intense regulatory oversight and a series of high-profile incidents. This certification follows extensive testing and addresses lingering concerns stemming from previous fatal crashes and a recent mid-air panel blowout. Boeing anticipates increasing production of the MAX family of aircraft, with the MAX 7 being the first new model approved since the earlier issues.
Previous Incidents Led to Stricter Certification Requirements

The certification process for the MAX 7 was notably extended due to new federal legislation enacted after two fatal crashes of the MAX aircraft in 2018 and 2019. A critical factor in those accidents was the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS), an anti-stall system that malfunctioned. Further complicating matters, a near-catastrophic incident in January 2024 involving an Alaska Airlines MAX resulted in a fuselage panel blowout, underscoring the continued need for rigorous safety validation. To achieve certification for the MAX 7, Boeing conducted 441 flight tests, accumulating 686 flight hours.
Legislation Mandated Sensor Upgrades for Existing Fleet

Following investigations into the MAX crashes, which highlighted weaknesses in government oversight, legislation was passed in 2020. This legislation specifically required Boeing to install new Angle of Attack (AOA) sensors across its entire fleet of over 2,300 MAX planes. The mandate stipulated that these installations were to be completed within a two-year timeframe.
Boeing Prepares for Increased Production and Deliveries

With the certification of the MAX 7, Boeing is poised to ramp up its production of the MAX aircraft. The company is preparing the initial aircraft for delivery to its launch customer, Southwest Airlines, which has expressed anticipation for bringing the new planes into service in the coming months. The FAA has already approved increases in MAX production rates, moving from 38 to 42, and then to 47 aircraft per month. Boeing's CEO has indicated plans to further increase monthly production to 52 jets, supported by a new production line established in Everett, Washington. This increased output is crucial for Boeing to meet its financial targets, including generating $10 billion in annual free cash flow.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

How many MAX planes are affected by the sensor mandate?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends