The Boeing 737 MAX, flagship of the American aircraft manufacturer, is once again under fire after a series of recent incidents which cast doubt on the reliability of the aircraft.
A “flagship” plane for Boeing, marred by fatal accidents
Launched in 2017 to compete with Airbus’ A320neo, the 737 MAX was supposed to allow Boeing to save fuel and be more competitive. However, a faulty design of the MCAS flight control system led to two fatal accidents in 2018 and 2019 with Lion Air and Ethiopian Airlines. These tragedies, which left 346 victims, dealt a heavy blow to the reputation of the American manufacturer and led to the aircraft being grounded for 20 months.
Repeated incidents worry the authorities
While the 737 MAX is making its gradual return to airline fleets, new incidents have affected its reliability. Side panels and doors separated in flight during separate flights, forcing emergency landings. The latest case concerns an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9, a door of which came off before being found in a Portland garden.
Faced with these events, aviation authorities such as the FAA have imposed urgent inspections of 171 aircraft around the world, aimed at verifying the conformity of the doors. These checks immobilize the planes for 4 to 8 hours.
Serious consequences for the airline industry
These successive setbacks weigh heavily on Boeing, damaging the confidence of companies and passengers in the 737 MAX. They also generate significant costs related to immobilization and controls for carriers. At a time when the sector is trying to recover from the pandemic, this situation is further weakening airline players.
Towards a gradual return of confidence?
Investigations are continuing to identify and remedy all possible causes of these incidents. Boeing is at a crossroads and must redouble its efforts to restore its credibility with its customers.
Beyond the 737 MAX, these events are a reminder that safety remains the number one priority for civil aviation, and that the road to returning to normal will be long. Constant vigilance and reinforced standards will be necessary to regain passenger confidence in air transport.
My name is Ethan, I’m 30 years old, and I’m the founder of this magazine. After studying journalism, I quickly decided to go freelance to be able to write as I wanted and talk about my true passions. I aim to create an information hub where French and international news is treated seriously and with insight. My goal is to illuminate the daily lives of my readers and encourage an in-depth understanding of current issues.
