Boeing 737 MAX returns, first flight today nearly two years after tragedy
As of today, the Boeing 737 MAX returns to the skies over Brazil, almost two years after it was put [...]
As of today, the Boeing 737 MAX returns to the skies over Brazil, nearly two years after it was grounded. Brazil's leading airline GOL wants to get all 7 of its Boeings back in the air by the end of December, starting from the São Paulo HUB.
In this article:
The stop was caused by two tragic accidents that resulted in the deaths of 346 people. The main culprit is thought to have been the MCAS (Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System, or an artificial intelligence sensor placed on the aircraft's engines), which was found to be faulty for reasons that are not yet fully known.
Celso Ferrer, vice president of GOL, said, "The priority is always the safety of our customers."
How did they solve the problem with the MCAS system?
During these two years, a software upgrade has been implemented that will serve to repair the MCAS system and avert future malfunctions. In addition, pilots will have to undergo ad hoc training on a simulator that will subject them to various emergency scenarios.
American Airlines, owner of some 737 MAXs, will also resume service, not before operating some charter flights with employees on board so that "our team members feel comfortable."
What about the other companies?
Southwest prepares to fly its 737 MAXs again in the second quarter of 2021, United Airlines, on the other hand, in the first quarter from its Denver and Houston HUBs, and finally Alaska Airlines announced the lease of 13 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft that will take service in March 2021.
