What caused the Ethiopian Airlines 737 MAX jet to hit excessive speed?

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Ethiopian Airlines 737 MAX Jet's Excessive Speed Attributed to Malfunctioning Automation System

The Ethiopian Airlines 737 MAX jet experienced excessive speed and was forced downwards due to a wrongly triggered automation system, according to a preliminary report. The aircraft's crew reportedly performed all recommended manufacturer procedures but remained unable to control the plane, leading to the March 10 crash that killed all 157 on board. This incident, mirroring a previous Lion Air 737 MAX crash, has prompted a global grounding of the aircraft model and raised scrutiny over its new software, pilot training, and regulatory oversight.
Faulty Sensor Data Led to Uncommanded Nose-Down Conditions

The preliminary report indicated that the Boeing 737 MAX jet suffered from faulty "angle of attack" sensor readings. These erroneous inputs caused the automated control system to repeatedly push the aircraft's nose downwards, a condition that the pilots were unable to counteract. An alarm signifying excessive speed was audible on the cockpit voice recorder as the jet reached approximately 500 knots (575 miles per hour), significantly exceeding operational limits.
Crew Followed Manufacturer Procedures Without Success

Despite diligently executing all procedures provided by the manufacturer, the flight crew could not regain control of the aircraft. The Transport Minister highlighted that the crew's inability to manage the repetitive, uncommanded nose-down movements indicated a critical issue with the aircraft's control system. Consequently, a review of this system by the manufacturer was recommended.
Boeing Acknowledges Responsibility for System Fix

Boeing acknowledged that the erroneous activation of its Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS) could increase workload for pilots. In response to the preliminary findings, the company stated its responsibility to eliminate this risk, asserting that they "own it and know how to do it." Boeing has been developing a software fix for the MCAS system, which it claims will enable pilots to always override the system when necessary.
Investigation Implicitly Points to Boeing's Control Systems

While the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority's investigation bureau was tasked with investigating rather than assigning blame, its findings implicitly directed scrutiny towards Boeing. The report defended the pilots' actions and recommended that the US company rectify its aircraft control systems. The investigators also suggested that regulatory bodies must ensure the aircraft's safety before permitting the MAX to return to service.

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What caused the Ethiopian Airlines 737 MAX jet to hit excessive speed?

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