The Boeing 737 aircraft is vulnerable to a takeover by hackers who only need a coin-sized device to do so, experts have warned. Researchers at the University of California San Diego and Oberlin College say this device can hijack the communications between two flight computers on the aircraft. Attackers can use it to change the flight plans and send it off course without the pilot ever knowing.&nbsp;The team built it for less than $100 and can be plugged into the maintenance port inside an electronics bay underneath the plane’s nose. An exterior hatch on the ground, open to maintenance workers and other staff, can be used to access the bay, creating a major scare. Installing the device would take less than 60 seconds and is Wi-Fi enabled, which allows an attacker to connect it to the plane's internet and then control it remotely. Why would scientists design such a device in the first place?Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/faa-orders-fix-for-faulty-seats-on-hundreds-of-boeing-737-max-jets-warns-of-passengers-injury-in-emergency-landings-1785228095211">FAA orders fix for faulty seats on hundreds of Boeing 737 MAX jets, warns of passenger injury in emergency landings</a><h2>Researchers warn of major consequences</h2>According to their paper, the intention is to "alert the aviation community to this class of risks" so they can address it before it turns dangerous. "We believe we have made a strong case that time-limited physical access (e.g., 60 seconds) represents a realistic goal for a motivated attacker and that the consequences of even such short access can be significant (and hence are worthy of attention)," the researchers wrote in the paper presented at the USENIX Security Symposium in Baltimore.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-the-b-52-bomber-everything-to-know-about-the-aircraft-that-crashed-in-california-1781594257489">What is the B-52 Bomber? Everything to know about the aircraft that crashed in California</a>&nbsp;The aircraft's Flight Management Computer manages the flight plan and gives information needed during takeoff. Pilots control it through the Multipurpose Control Display Unit. The device can interfere with communications between the two, which gives them the power to alter flight routes which would not pop up on the pilot's display. They can use the autopilot to send it to another country's airspace without the pilot's knowledge.&nbsp;During takeoff, pilots access information about the plane’s weight, balance and outside temperature for a safe takeoff. The device can manipulate this information, creating a dangerous scenario.&nbsp;According to UC San Diego, nearly 8,000 Boeing 737s are currently in operation, and it is important to learn about such threats. They state that their work identifies a broader cybersecurity risk across the aviation industry. The researchers alerted Boeing about the threat in 2020 but are not sure if it has done anything to fix the issue. &nbsp;<h2>What Boeing said about the threat</h2>Boeing told WIRED that it has reviewed the findings and is confident that current safeguards are sufficient to prevent such attacks. "Our technical experts are confident that the layers of protection in place on the airplane...provide sufficient mitigation to significantly limit the feasibility and risk of real-world attacks."

Researchers have developed a device that can be plugged into the Boeing 737 and then hacked and controlled externally. The team said it had alerted Boeing about the vulnerability in 2020. Meanwhile, the company says there are no risks at this time.

The Boeing 737 aircraft is vulnerable to a takeover by hackers who only need a coin-sized device to do so, experts have warned. Researchers at the University of California San Diego and Oberlin College say this device can hijack the communications between two flight computers on the aircraft. Attackers can use it to change the flight plans and send it off course without the pilot ever knowing. The team built it for less than $100 and can be plugged into the maintenance port inside an electronics bay underneath the plane’s nose. An exterior hatch on the ground, open to maintenance workers and other staff, can be used to access the bay, creating a major scare. Installing the device would take less than 60 seconds and is Wi-Fi enabled, which allows an attacker to connect it to the plane's internet and then control it remotely. Why would scientists design such a device in the first place? Also Read: FAA orders fix for faulty seats on hundreds of Boeing 737 MAX jets, warns of passenger injury in emergency landings Researchers warn of major consequences According to their paper, the intention is to "alert the aviation community to this class of risks" so they can address it before it turns dangerous. "We believe we have made a strong case that time-limited physical access (e.g., 60 seconds) represents a realistic goal for a motivated attacker and that the consequences of even such short access can be significant (and hence are worthy of attention)," the researchers wrote in the paper presented at the USENIX Security Symposium in Baltimore. Also Read: What is the B-52 Bomber? Everything to know about the aircraft that crashed in California The aircraft's Flight Management Computer manages the flight plan and gives information needed during takeoff. Pilots control it through the Multipurpose Control Display Unit. The device can interfere with communications between the two, which gives them the power to alter flight routes which would not pop up on the pilot's display. They can use the autopilot to send it to another country's airspace without the pilot's knowledge. During takeoff, pilots access information about the plane’s weight, balance and outside temperature for a safe takeoff. The device can manipulate this information, creating a dangerous scenario. According to UC San Diego, nearly 8,000 Boeing 737s are currently in operation, and it is important to learn about such threats. They state that their work identifies a broader cybersecurity risk across the aviation industry. The researchers alerted Boeing about the threat in 2020 but are not sure if it has done anything to fix the issue. What Boeing said about the threat Boeing told WIRED that it has reviewed the findings and is confident that current safeguards are sufficient to prevent such attacks. "Our technical experts are confident that the layers of protection in place on the airplane...provide sufficient mitigation to significantly limit the feasibility and risk of real-world attacks."

Researchers have developed a device that can be plugged into the Boeing 737 and then hacked and controlled externally. The team said it had alerted Boeing about the vulnerability in 2020. Meanwhile, the company says there are no risks at this time.

Researchers flag major flaw in Boeing 737 attackers can use to send it off course without the pilot ever knowing

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced on Monday that seats on hundreds of US-registered Boeing 737 MAX aircraft had been incorrectly installed and require repairs. It warned that if left unaddressed, the faulty seats could pose an injury to passengers in the event of an emergency landing. The FAA's proposed airworthiness directive, issued Monday, would cover 453 US-registered jets. The agency did not specify whether international carriers would also be affected, although such operators generally comply with FAA directives when applicable.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/you-are-a-naked-official-in-china-if-you-hold-high-posts-and-have-children-or-spouse-abroad-what-about-india-china-corruption-vs-india-corruption-1785222247153">You are a 'Naked Official' in China if you hold high posts and have children or spouse abroad. What about India?</a> The agency stated in the airworthiness directive proposal that it received “a report that certain passenger seat assemblies were not correctly installed in the seat tracks.” According to the FAA, each 737 MAX aircraft could have up to 69 track-mounted passenger seat assemblies affected, with repairs estimated to take about one work-hour per assembly. The agency did not indicate a timeline for airlines to complete the fixes, and Boeing had not responded to a request for comment at the time of reporting.

FAA stated that each 737 MAX aircraft could have up to 69 track-mounted passenger seat assemblies affected, with repairs estimated to take about one work-hour per assembly. 

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced on Monday that seats on hundreds of US-registered Boeing 737 MAX aircraft had been incorrectly installed and require repairs. It warned that if left unaddressed, the faulty seats could pose an injury to passengers in the event of an emergency landing. The FAA's proposed airworthiness directive, issued Monday, would cover 453 US-registered jets. The agency did not specify whether international carriers would also be affected, although such operators generally comply with FAA directives when applicable. Also read: You are a 'Naked Official' in China if you hold high posts and have children or spouse abroad. What about India? The agency stated in the airworthiness directive proposal that it received “a report that certain passenger seat assemblies were not correctly installed in the seat tracks.” According to the FAA, each 737 MAX aircraft could have up to 69 track-mounted passenger seat assemblies affected, with repairs estimated to take about one work-hour per assembly. The agency did not indicate a timeline for airlines to complete the fixes, and Boeing had not responded to a request for comment at the time of reporting.

FAA stated that each 737 MAX aircraft could have up to 69 track-mounted passenger seat assemblies affected, with repairs estimated to take about one work-hour per assembly.&nbsp;

FAA orders fix for faulty seats on hundreds of Boeing 737 MAX jets, warns of passenger injury in emergency landings

Boeing stated on November 12, that it delivered 14 commercial jets in October, less than half of the 34 jets it handed over to customers during the same month in 2023, after a weeks-long strike halted most of its aircraft production, as detailed in a report by Reuters.

The US plane-maker is requiring all of its West Coast factory workers to be back at work on Tuesday after the strike ended on November 5, but added in a statement that it will be several weeks before air-plane production gets fully underway, the Reuters report explained further.

Boeing faces heightened oversight<o:p></o:p>

Boeing is facing heightened oversight by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as it resumes output of its strongest-selling 737 MAX jets, along with 767, 777 and 777x models, after their production was halted during the strike which started on September 12.

The plane-maker is trying to grow 737 production to hit a rate of 38 a month to generate needed revenues after the strike weighed on its September and October deliveries. Boeing 787 production in South Carolina was not affected by the strike.

The plane-maker delivered 34 jets during October 2023, when it struggled to correct a manufacturing defect in the 737 MAX. Boeing was already operating a slower 737 MAX assembly line since a January 5 in-flight blowout of a door plug on a near-new model heightened regulatory scrutiny.

Boeing said it will continue monitoring production to ensure safety and quality. It will also ensure employee training certifications are current. The objective of these steps is to ensure smooth functioning of the airline major.

The company delivered just 24 aircraft through October<o:p></o:p>

According to Boeing, October deliveries included nine 737 MAXes, four 787s and one 767 freighter for FedEx. From the strike's beginning through October, the company delivered 24 aircraft, the Reuters report detailed further.

The company booked 63 gross orders during the month with no cancellations, including 46 737s, four 777 freighters and 10 787s.

Since the beginning of the year, Boeing has recorded 378 gross orders and 335 net orders after cancellations and conversions. After also adjusting for accounting standards, Boeing booked 141 net orders. Boeing said 220 gross orders, or nearly 60 per cent of its orders during the year, were placed between July and October.

Boeing's European rival Airbus (AIR.PA) said on November 7 it had delivered 62 jets in October, as the world's largest plane-maker tries to reach an annual goal of "around" 770 planes, revised down from 800 in July after supply chain problems.

Market participants and global investors will carefully follow these developments and make informed investment decisions regarding Boeing based on the same.

Boeing stated on November 12, that it delivered 14 commercial jets in October, less than half of the 34 jets it handed over to customers during the same month in 2023, after a weeks-long strike halted most of its aircraft production, as detailed in a report by Reuters.

Boeing stated on November 12, that it delivered 14 commercial jets in October, less than half of the 34 jets it handed over to customers during the same month in 2023, after a weeks-long strike halted most of its aircraft production, as detailed in a report by Reuters. The US plane-maker is requiring all of its West Coast factory workers to be back at work on Tuesday after the strike ended on November 5, but added in a statement that it will be several weeks before air-plane production gets fully underway, the Reuters report explained further. Boeing faces heightened oversight Boeing is facing heightened oversight by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as it resumes output of its strongest-selling 737 MAX jets, along with 767, 777 and 777x models, after their production was halted during the strike which started on September 12. The plane-maker is trying to grow 737 production to hit a rate of 38 a month to generate needed revenues after the strike weighed on its September and October deliveries. Boeing 787 production in South Carolina was not affected by the strike. The plane-maker delivered 34 jets during October 2023, when it struggled to correct a manufacturing defect in the 737 MAX. Boeing was already operating a slower 737 MAX assembly line since a January 5 in-flight blowout of a door plug on a near-new model heightened regulatory scrutiny. Boeing said it will continue monitoring production to ensure safety and quality. It will also ensure employee training certifications are current. The objective of these steps is to ensure smooth functioning of the airline major. The company delivered just 24 aircraft through October According to Boeing, October deliveries included nine 737 MAXes, four 787s and one 767 freighter for FedEx. From the strike's beginning through October, the company delivered 24 aircraft, the Reuters report detailed further. The company booked 63 gross orders during the month with no cancellations, including 46 737s, four 777 freighters and 10 787s. Since the beginning of the year, Boeing has recorded 378 gross orders and 335 net orders after cancellations and conversions. After also adjusting for accounting standards, Boeing booked 141 net orders. Boeing said 220 gross orders, or nearly 60 per cent of its orders during the year, were placed between July and October. Boeing's European rival Airbus (AIR.PA) said on November 7 it had delivered 62 jets in October, as the world's largest plane-maker tries to reach an annual goal of "around" 770 planes, revised down from 800 in July after supply chain problems. Market participants and global investors will carefully follow these developments and make informed investment decisions regarding Boeing based on the same.

Boeing strike causes October deliveries to drop to just 14 jets

Boeing announced on October 28 its plan to launch a stock offering aimed at raising up to $22 billion, a move designed to bolster its financial position during a prolonged strike by workers and to maintain its investment-grade credit rating, as detailed in a report by Reuters.

The strike, involving approximately 33,000 workers from the machinists union, began in September and has halted production of key aircraft, including the profitable 737 MAX. The company's financial health has significantly deteriorated as a result. Boeing is planning to offer 90 million shares of common stock along with $5 billion in mandatory convertible securities.

Ben Tsocanos, aerospace director at S&amp;P Global Ratings, commented on the implications of the offering, stating, "The offering is certainly favourable for credit quality. We'll factor it into our assessment of the rating in the context of continued negative free cash flow." Notably, Boeing has maintained its investment-grade rating throughout its history.

Investor interest appears robust, with reports indicating that the offerings are heavily oversubscribed, likely pricing close to the last closing price of $155 per share. In afternoon trading, shares dipped by 0.6 per cent. If demand remains high, Boeing has the option to issue an additional 13.5 million shares and increase the mandatory convertible offering by another $750 million.

Further, from Friday's closing price, Boeing could potentially raise approximately $13.95 billion from the common stock offering, with an additional $2.1 billion if the offering is oversubscribed. The mandatory convertible offering could generate up to $5.75 billion, according to a term sheet, the Reuters report detailed further.

Pricing for the offerings is anticipated to occur after market hours on Monday. The mandatory convertible securities will be marketed to investors with a dividend range of 6.0 per cent to 6.5 per cent, along with a premium of 17.5 per cent to 22.5 per cent based on the last closing price for conversion at or before the maturity date of October 15, 2027.

Maintaining its investment-grade credit rating is crucial for Boeing, especially in light of warnings from rating agencies regarding potential downgrades due to the ongoing strike. Such downgrades could increase the cost of capital for the company.

Boeing has already faced challenges due to a regulator-imposed production cap on its MAX jets following a mid-air incident earlier this year. Coupled with labour disputes, the company has reported a substantial cash burn, including a $6 billion loss in the third quarter alone. Striking workers recently rejected an improved contract offer, with their demands including a 40 per cent wage increase and a return to a defined-benefit pension plan, requests Boeing is unlikely to fulfil.

Earlier this month, Boeing secured a $10 billion credit agreement and announced plans to raise up to $25 billion through various offerings. S&amp;P has cautioned that a rating downgrade may follow if Boeing's cash balance drops below $10 billion or if it increases leverage to meet debt obligations.

As of September 30, Boeing had cash and marketable securities totalling $10.50 billion and faces $11.5 billion in debt maturities by February 2026, alongside commitments related to acquiring Spirit AeroSystems. 

The proceeds from the latest offerings are intended for general corporate purposes, which may include debt repayment.

Boeing announced on October 28 its plan to launch a stock offering aimed at raising up to $22 billion, a move designed to bolster its financial position during a prolonged strike by workers and to maintain its investment-grade credit rating, as detailed in a report by Reuters.

Boeing announced on October 28 its plan to launch a stock offering aimed at raising up to $22 billion, a move designed to bolster its financial position during a prolonged strike by workers and to maintain its investment-grade credit rating, as detailed in a report by Reuters. The strike, involving approximately 33,000 workers from the machinists union, began in September and has halted production of key aircraft, including the profitable 737 MAX. The company's financial health has significantly deteriorated as a result. Boeing is planning to offer 90 million shares of common stock along with $5 billion in mandatory convertible securities. Ben Tsocanos, aerospace director at S&P Global Ratings, commented on the implications of the offering, stating, "The offering is certainly favourable for credit quality. We'll factor it into our assessment of the rating in the context of continued negative free cash flow." Notably, Boeing has maintained its investment-grade rating throughout its history. Investor interest appears robust, with reports indicating that the offerings are heavily oversubscribed, likely pricing close to the last closing price of $155 per share. In afternoon trading, shares dipped by 0.6 per cent. If demand remains high, Boeing has the option to issue an additional 13.5 million shares and increase the mandatory convertible offering by another $750 million. Further, from Friday's closing price, Boeing could potentially raise approximately $13.95 billion from the common stock offering, with an additional $2.1 billion if the offering is oversubscribed. The mandatory convertible offering could generate up to $5.75 billion, according to a term sheet, the Reuters report detailed further. Pricing for the offerings is anticipated to occur after market hours on Monday. The mandatory convertible securities will be marketed to investors with a dividend range of 6.0 per cent to 6.5 per cent, along with a premium of 17.5 per cent to 22.5 per cent based on the last closing price for conversion at or before the maturity date of October 15, 2027. Maintaining its investment-grade credit rating is crucial for Boeing, especially in light of warnings from rating agencies regarding potential downgrades due to the ongoing strike. Such downgrades could increase the cost of capital for the company. Boeing has already faced challenges due to a regulator-imposed production cap on its MAX jets following a mid-air incident earlier this year. Coupled with labour disputes, the company has reported a substantial cash burn, including a $6 billion loss in the third quarter alone. Striking workers recently rejected an improved contract offer, with their demands including a 40 per cent wage increase and a return to a defined-benefit pension plan, requests Boeing is unlikely to fulfil. Earlier this month, Boeing secured a $10 billion credit agreement and announced plans to raise up to $25 billion through various offerings. S&P has cautioned that a rating downgrade may follow if Boeing's cash balance drops below $10 billion or if it increases leverage to meet debt obligations. As of September 30, Boeing had cash and marketable securities totalling $10.50 billion and faces $11.5 billion in debt maturities by February 2026, alongside commitments related to acquiring Spirit AeroSystems. The proceeds from the latest offerings are intended for general corporate purposes, which may include debt repayment.

Boeing eyes $22 billion stock offering to strengthen finances amid ongoing strike

US aircraft manufacturing giant, Boeing&nbsp;on Sunday (Jul 7) managed to avoid criminal trial after agreeing to plead guilty to charges involving two 737 MAX fatal crashes. Dubbed the more fuel-efficient version of the popular 737 (the best-selling airliner ever), Boeing's fortunes with 737 MAX have been mired in corruption, deceit and death.&nbsp;

The aircraft has been responsible for killing 346 people in its short seven years of service - effectively becoming a symbol of safety concern for Boeing.&nbsp;

Here's a troubled timeline of Boeing's MAX 737 including key events:

August 30, 2011

In an attempt to secure an advantage over rivals Airbus who were given a large order for A320neo by American Airlines, Boeing launched 737 MAX - an update to the 737. However, rather than providing an all-new design, Boeing only installed larger engines in the plane and called it a day.&nbsp;

December 8, 2015

The first 737 MAX rolls out of the Renton factory with a new software dubbed Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System, or MCASm which would go on to make headlines for the wrong reasons.&nbsp;

January 29, 2016

The first 737 MAX takes the flight

March 9, 2017

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certifies the 737 MAX 8 and 11 months later, greenlits the larger version, the 737 MAX 9.&nbsp;

May 17, 2017

The American company delivers the first MAX 8 to Malaysia-based Malindo Air, owned by Lion Air of Indonesia.&nbsp;

September 30, 2018

By the end of the month, Boeing received orders for nearly 5,000 MAX jets.

October 20, 2018

All 189 people aboard the Lion Air Flight 610&nbsp;(a Boeing 737 MAX 8) were killed after it plunged into the Java Sea, minutes after takeoff from Jakarta.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-avoids-criminal-trial-over-737-max-crashes-after-accepting-plead-deal-738824">Also read |&nbsp;Boeing avoids criminal trial over 737 Max crashes after accepting plea deal</a>

November&nbsp;6, 2018

After an initial investigation, the focus shifted&nbsp;to Boeing's flight-control system and its proprietary software --&nbsp;MCAS. Indonesian investigators reveal that pilots of the fateful flight struggled for control as the automatic system pushed the nose of the plane, contributing to the crash.&nbsp;

What is MCAS?

Since Boeing loaded a heavier but fuel-efficient engine in the same chassis, the airplane's weight distribution was altered. Tests revealed that the new 737 tended to automatically pitch up in certain situations.

To prevent such a situation from arising in the air, Boeing introduced MCAS which would&nbsp;automatically push the plane's nose down when it sensed that the jet's nose was pointing too high upwards.

However, pilots were not informed correctly about MCAS, arguing that it&nbsp;was merely a system meant to make the new MAX jet behave just like one of the older 737s.

March 10, 2019

Bearing eerie similarities to the crash in Jakarta, an Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 (737 MAX 8) crashed&nbsp;after takeoff in&nbsp;Addis Ababa&nbsp;killing 157 passengers and crew members.

March 2019

Aviation regulators across the globe ordered the grounding of 737 MAX jets, fearing the safety of passengers.

December 23, 2019

Boeing CEO Dennis Muilenburg was fired as he attempted to pressure the FAA to lift the grounding orders against MAX.&nbsp;

November 18, 2020

The FAA ungrounds MAX after&nbsp;approval of a flight-control software update and other changes by Boeing.&nbsp;

January 7, 2021

Justice Department charges Boeing with fraud but does not press for prosecution. Instead, the DoJ asks Boeing to pay a&nbsp;$2.5 billion settlement.

December 13, 2021

Whistleblowers allege fundamental problems with safety oversight in the aerospace industry in a report to Congress.&nbsp;

September 22, 2022

Boeing and US&nbsp;regulators reach a $244 million settlement in deadly MAX crashes.

January&nbsp;30, 2023

Boeing announced plans for a fourth MAX assembly line in Everett.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-boeing-737-max-parts-missing-from-indian-plane-678384" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Boeing 737 Max: Parts missing from Indian plane</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-boeing-737-max-parts-missing-from-indian-plane-678384/embed" width="560"></iframe>

August 23, 2023

Boeing reports defects in the aft pressure bulkhead, assembled by Spirit.

January 5, 2024

A MAX 9 depressurises over Portland after a fuselage panel blows out. Authorities ground all U.S. MAX 9s the next day.

(With inputs from agencies)

US aircraft manufacturing giant, Boeing on Sunday (Jul 7) managed to avoid criminal trial after agreeing to plead guilty to charges involving two 737 MAX fatal crashes.

US aircraft manufacturing giant, Boeing on Sunday (Jul 7) managed to avoid criminal trial after agreeing to plead guilty to charges involving two 737 MAX fatal crashes. Dubbed the more fuel-efficient version of the popular 737 (the best-selling airliner ever), Boeing's fortunes with 737 MAX have been mired in corruption, deceit and death. The aircraft has been responsible for killing 346 people in its short seven years of service - effectively becoming a symbol of safety concern for Boeing. Here's a troubled timeline of Boeing's MAX 737 including key events: August 30, 2011 In an attempt to secure an advantage over rivals Airbus who were given a large order for A320neo by American Airlines, Boeing launched 737 MAX - an update to the 737. However, rather than providing an all-new design, Boeing only installed larger engines in the plane and called it a day. December 8, 2015 The first 737 MAX rolls out of the Renton factory with a new software dubbed Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System, or MCASm which would go on to make headlines for the wrong reasons. January 29, 2016 The first 737 MAX takes the flight March 9, 2017 The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certifies the 737 MAX 8 and 11 months later, greenlits the larger version, the 737 MAX 9. May 17, 2017 The American company delivers the first MAX 8 to Malaysia-based Malindo Air, owned by Lion Air of Indonesia. September 30, 2018 By the end of the month, Boeing received orders for nearly 5,000 MAX jets. October 20, 2018 All 189 people aboard the Lion Air Flight 610 (a Boeing 737 MAX 8) were killed after it plunged into the Java Sea, minutes after takeoff from Jakarta. Also read | Boeing avoids criminal trial over 737 Max crashes after accepting plea deal November 6, 2018 After an initial investigation, the focus shifted to Boeing's flight-control system and its proprietary software -- MCAS. Indonesian investigators reveal that pilots of the fateful flight struggled for control as the automatic system pushed the nose of the plane, contributing to the crash. What is MCAS? Since Boeing loaded a heavier but fuel-efficient engine in the same chassis, the airplane's weight distribution was altered. Tests revealed that the new 737 tended to automatically pitch up in certain situations. To prevent such a situation from arising in the air, Boeing introduced MCAS which would automatically push the plane's nose down when it sensed that the jet's nose was pointing too high upwards. However, pilots were not informed correctly about MCAS, arguing that it was merely a system meant to make the new MAX jet behave just like one of the older 737s. March 10, 2019 Bearing eerie similarities to the crash in Jakarta, an Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 (737 MAX 8) crashed after takeoff in Addis Ababa killing 157 passengers and crew members. March 2019 Aviation regulators across the globe ordered the grounding of 737 MAX jets, fearing the safety of passengers. December 23, 2019 Boeing CEO Dennis Muilenburg was fired as he attempted to pressure the FAA to lift the grounding orders against MAX. November 18, 2020 The FAA ungrounds MAX after approval of a flight-control software update and other changes by Boeing. January 7, 2021 Justice Department charges Boeing with fraud but does not press for prosecution. Instead, the DoJ asks Boeing to pay a $2.5 billion settlement. December 13, 2021 Whistleblowers allege fundamental problems with safety oversight in the aerospace industry in a report to Congress. September 22, 2022 Boeing and US regulators reach a $244 million settlement in deadly MAX crashes. January 30, 2023 Boeing announced plans for a fourth MAX assembly line in Everett. Watch | Gravitas: Boeing 737 Max: Parts missing from Indian plane August 23, 2023 Boeing reports defects in the aft pressure bulkhead, assembled by Spirit. January 5, 2024 A MAX 9 depressurises over Portland after a fuselage panel blows out. Authorities ground all U.S. MAX 9s the next day. (With inputs from agencies)

Troubled timeline of MAX 737, the Boeing jet responsible for killing 346

Boeing executives are unlikely to be criminally charged over fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019 that killed 346 people as the statute of limitations has likely passed, US&nbsp;Justice Department officials told victims' family members in a meeting.

Details were corroborated by a person familiar with the gathering on Friday and correspondence reviewed by Reuters.

The deadline for prosecuting most federal crimes is five years.

The Justice Department found in mid-May that Boeing violated a 2021 deferred prosecution agreement (DPA) that had shielded the company from a criminal charge arising from the fatal crashes.

Officials agreed to ask a judge to dismiss the charge of conspiring to defraud the US&nbsp;Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as long as Boeing abided by the terms of the agreement over a three-year period ending January&nbsp;7, 2024.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/flashback-friday-tracing-the-turbulent-journey-of-the-boeing-737-max-aircraft-679327">Flashback Friday: Tracing the turbulent journey of the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft</a>

But an in-flight blowout two days before the agreement expired exposed ongoing safety and quality issues. A panel blew off a new Boeing 737 MAX 9 jet during a Jan. 5 Alaska Airlines flight.

Boeing has until June 13 to outline any disagreements with the department's finding that it violated the 2021 agreement. The Justice Department has until July 7 to inform a federal judge in Texas of its plans.

Boeing has said it believes it has "honored the terms of the agreement" and looks forward to responding to the Justice Department.

The Justice Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The department is weighing several options, including whether to prosecute Boeing or extend the DPA by a year. Officials could also enter into a new DPA or reach a non-prosecution agreement that does not involve court supervision.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/last-minute-snag-halts-boeing-starliners-launch-nasa-estimates-24-hour-turnaround-time-727870">Last-minute snag halts launch of Boeing’s Starliner, NASA estimates 24-hour turnaround time</a>

Officials could also seek to negotiate a plea deal with Boeing over the 2021 fraud charge or take the company to trial over it.

Boeing could also face charges over its behavior during the three-year term of the DPA, though officials have not found evidence of any felonies committed during that period, prosecutors told the victims' families, according to the source familiar with the meeting.

Victims' family members are discussing asking officials to seek an enhanced sentence should Boeing be prosecuted and convicted, the source told Reuters.

In the meeting, Justice Department officials said they believe they are unable to prove cases of federal manslaughter or fraud involving aircraft parts beyond a reasonable doubt, the person added.

Boeing executives are unlikely to be criminally charged over fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019 that killed 346 people as the statute of limitations has likely passed, US Justice Department officials told victims' family members in a meeting.

Boeing executives are unlikely to be criminally charged over fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019 that killed 346 people as the statute of limitations has likely passed, US Justice Department officials told victims' family members in a meeting. Details were corroborated by a person familiar with the gathering on Friday and correspondence reviewed by Reuters. The deadline for prosecuting most federal crimes is five years. The Justice Department found in mid-May that Boeing violated a 2021 deferred prosecution agreement (DPA) that had shielded the company from a criminal charge arising from the fatal crashes. Officials agreed to ask a judge to dismiss the charge of conspiring to defraud the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as long as Boeing abided by the terms of the agreement over a three-year period ending January 7, 2024. Also Read | Flashback Friday: Tracing the turbulent journey of the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft But an in-flight blowout two days before the agreement expired exposed ongoing safety and quality issues. A panel blew off a new Boeing 737 MAX 9 jet during a Jan. 5 Alaska Airlines flight. Boeing has until June 13 to outline any disagreements with the department's finding that it violated the 2021 agreement. The Justice Department has until July 7 to inform a federal judge in Texas of its plans. Boeing has said it believes it has "honored the terms of the agreement" and looks forward to responding to the Justice Department. The Justice Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The department is weighing several options, including whether to prosecute Boeing or extend the DPA by a year. Officials could also enter into a new DPA or reach a non-prosecution agreement that does not involve court supervision. Also Read | Last-minute snag halts launch of Boeing’s Starliner, NASA estimates 24-hour turnaround time Officials could also seek to negotiate a plea deal with Boeing over the 2021 fraud charge or take the company to trial over it. Boeing could also face charges over its behavior during the three-year term of the DPA, though officials have not found evidence of any felonies committed during that period, prosecutors told the victims' families, according to the source familiar with the meeting. Victims' family members are discussing asking officials to seek an enhanced sentence should Boeing be prosecuted and convicted, the source told Reuters. In the meeting, Justice Department officials said they believe they are unable to prove cases of federal manslaughter or fraud involving aircraft parts beyond a reasonable doubt, the person added.

Boeing executives unlikely to be charged over 737 MAX crashes that killed 346 people: Report

Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun will step down at the end of 2024, said the company on Monday (Mar 25) as a part of a sweeping management shakeup in the United States-based aircraft manufacturer. The company is facing a safety crisis following a string of incidents, including January’s mid-air panel blowout on a 737 MAX plane operated by Alaska Airlines.&nbsp;

<h2>Boeing’s management shakeup</h2>

According to the company, chairman of the board Larry Kellner is also resigning and will leave after the company’s annual meeting in May. The board has elected Steve Mollenkopf to succeed Kellner as independent board chair, said Boeing, in a statement.&nbsp;

Mollenkopf, former Qualcomm CEO, will lead the board’s process of selecting Boeing’s next CEO. Additionally, Stan Deal, Boeing Commercial Airplanes (BCA) President and CEO, will also retire&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/airbus-ceo-expresses-concern-over-boeings-ongoing-technical-issues-702158">Airbus CEO expresses concern over Boeing's ongoing technical issues</a>

Deal will be replaced by Stephanie Pope who has been placed in charge of the BCA effective immediately, said the company. Meanwhile, Calhoun will continue to lead the company till the end of the year.&nbsp;

The Boeing CEO and the company have faced mounting pressure since the January 5 incident where the Alaska Airlines flight narrowly avoided a catastrophic incident where a panel known as a “door plug” blew out of the 737 MAX plane over the US state of Oregon.&nbsp;

The company has faced intense scrutiny since the US authorities curbed its production while Boeing attempts to fix its safety and quality issues.&nbsp;

In a letter to Boeing employees, on Monday, Calhoun called the Alaska Airlines incident a “watershed moment” for the company and said that we should respond to it with “humility and complete transparency” as well as “inculcate a total commitment to safety and quality at every level of our company.”

“The eyes of the world are on us,” said the Boeing CEO. “We will remain squarely focussed on completing the work we have done together to return our company to stability after the extraordinary challenges of the past five years, with safety and quality at the forefront of everything that we do.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/boeings-present-troubles-present-an-opportunity-for-airbus-to-ascend-heres-how-699290">Boeing’s present troubles present an opportunity for Airbus to ascend. Here’s how</a>

Calhoun was appointed to the top job in late 2019 following the ouster of Dennis Muilenburg and began leading Boeing in early 2020. Notably, Muilenburg, who was the chief executive, was ousted for his handling of the aftermath of two deadly 737 Max crashes.

<h2>Boeing incidents and safety concerns</h2>

Since the incident in January, Calhoun has promised investors, regulators, and the people that Boeing would get its myriad quality struggles under control.

The two crashes in 2018 and 2019 involved Boeing 737 Max planes which killed nearly 350 people prompting the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to curb the company’s production to a rate of 38 jets per month, but it struggled to even reach that number, according to CFO Brian West.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun will step down at the end of 2024, said the company on Monday (Mar 25) as a part of a sweeping management shakeup in the United States-based aircraft manufacturer.

Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun will step down at the end of 2024, said the company on Monday (Mar 25) as a part of a sweeping management shakeup in the United States-based aircraft manufacturer. The company is facing a safety crisis following a string of incidents, including January’s mid-air panel blowout on a 737 MAX plane operated by Alaska Airlines. Boeing’s management shakeup According to the company, chairman of the board Larry Kellner is also resigning and will leave after the company’s annual meeting in May. The board has elected Steve Mollenkopf to succeed Kellner as independent board chair, said Boeing, in a statement. Mollenkopf, former Qualcomm CEO, will lead the board’s process of selecting Boeing’s next CEO. Additionally, Stan Deal, Boeing Commercial Airplanes (BCA) President and CEO, will also retire Also Read | Airbus CEO expresses concern over Boeing's ongoing technical issues Deal will be replaced by Stephanie Pope who has been placed in charge of the BCA effective immediately, said the company. Meanwhile, Calhoun will continue to lead the company till the end of the year. The Boeing CEO and the company have faced mounting pressure since the January 5 incident where the Alaska Airlines flight narrowly avoided a catastrophic incident where a panel known as a “door plug” blew out of the 737 MAX plane over the US state of Oregon. The company has faced intense scrutiny since the US authorities curbed its production while Boeing attempts to fix its safety and quality issues. In a letter to Boeing employees, on Monday, Calhoun called the Alaska Airlines incident a “watershed moment” for the company and said that we should respond to it with “humility and complete transparency” as well as “inculcate a total commitment to safety and quality at every level of our company.” “The eyes of the world are on us,” said the Boeing CEO. “We will remain squarely focussed on completing the work we have done together to return our company to stability after the extraordinary challenges of the past five years, with safety and quality at the forefront of everything that we do.” Also Read | Boeing’s present troubles present an opportunity for Airbus to ascend. Here’s how Calhoun was appointed to the top job in late 2019 following the ouster of Dennis Muilenburg and began leading Boeing in early 2020. Notably, Muilenburg, who was the chief executive, was ousted for his handling of the aftermath of two deadly 737 Max crashes. Boeing incidents and safety concerns Since the incident in January, Calhoun has promised investors, regulators, and the people that Boeing would get its myriad quality struggles under control. The two crashes in 2018 and 2019 involved Boeing 737 Max planes which killed nearly 350 people prompting the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to curb the company’s production to a rate of 38 jets per month, but it struggled to even reach that number, according to CFO Brian West. (With inputs from agencies)

Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun to step down amid aircraft safety issues crisis

US aircraft manufacturer&nbsp;Boeing&nbsp;said Sunday it has learned of new problems with the fuselage of its flagship 737 model which, while not posing an immediate in-flight danger, will require "rework" on dozens of planes.

"This past Thursday, a supplier notified us of a non-conformance in some 737 fuselages,"&nbsp; Boeing&nbsp;Commercial Airplanes chief executive Stan Deal said in a statement to employees that was released to reporters.

According to Deal, an employee working at the supplier "flagged to his manager that two holes may not have been drilled exactly to our requirements."&nbsp;

"While this potential condition is not an immediate flight safety issue and all 737s can continue operating safely, we currently believe we will have to perform rework on about 50 undelivered airplanes," an issue that "could delay some near-term 737 deliveries."

Deal described it as "the only course of action" to deliver perfect aircraft to clients.

Boeing&nbsp;has struggled over the past year with difficulties on its star plane, the 737 MAX, culminating with a major in-flight safety incident on Alaska Airlines in early January that prompted a sweeping investigation by the regulating body the Federal Aviation Administration.

In his letter, Deal said employees offered suggestions on more than 1,000 improvements since a series of training events following the January 5 incident.

Some have already been taken into account, Deal said, including a process to expedite the purchase of new tools and improve ease of access to certain parts of the plane.

US aircraft manufacturer Boeing said Sunday it has learned of new problems with the fuselage of its flagship 737 model which, while not posing an immediate in-flight danger, will require "rework" on dozens of planes.

US aircraft manufacturer Boeing said Sunday it has learned of new problems with the fuselage of its flagship 737 model which, while not posing an immediate in-flight danger, will require "rework" on dozens of planes. "This past Thursday, a supplier notified us of a non-conformance in some 737 fuselages," Boeing Commercial Airplanes chief executive Stan Deal said in a statement to employees that was released to reporters. According to Deal, an employee working at the supplier "flagged to his manager that two holes may not have been drilled exactly to our requirements." "While this potential condition is not an immediate flight safety issue and all 737s can continue operating safely, we currently believe we will have to perform rework on about 50 undelivered airplanes," an issue that "could delay some near-term 737 deliveries." Deal described it as "the only course of action" to deliver perfect aircraft to clients. Boeing has struggled over the past year with difficulties on its star plane, the 737 MAX, culminating with a major in-flight safety incident on Alaska Airlines in early January that prompted a sweeping investigation by the regulating body the Federal Aviation Administration. In his letter, Deal said employees offered suggestions on more than 1,000 improvements since a series of training events following the January 5 incident. Some have already been taken into account, Deal said, including a process to expedite the purchase of new tools and improve ease of access to certain parts of the plane.

Boeing says new problem found in flagship 737 model could delay deliveries

On Thursday, a Qantas Airways flight en route to Fiji from Sydney had to turn back after a possible mechanical failure.&nbsp;

This is the Australian airline’s second flight in just two days to experience trouble mid-air.&nbsp;

On Wednesday (January 18) emergency services were called to assemble as part of an “emergency response” after Qantas Flight QF144 from Auckland, New Zealand to Sydney, Australia had issued a mid-air mayday call after experiencing trouble with one of its engines.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/emergency-response-ordered-at-sydney-airport-for-flight-carrying-100-passengers-engine-failure-suspected-553669">Qantas flight issues mid-air 'mayday' after trouble with engine; makes safe landing at Sydney airport</a>

In the latest incident, Flight QF101 was forced to return to Sydney after pilots received a fault indicator about a potential mechanical issue, reports Bloomberg.

As per Qantas, following the fault indicator, the crew followed standard procedure, and the aircraft made a normal landing in Sydney.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-plane-tragedy-hospitals-return-bodies-from-air-crash-to-grieving-families-553640">Nepal plane tragedy: Hospitals return bodies from air crash to grieving families</a>

The Thursday flight was also a Boeing Co. 737, a plane of the same model as the one that had been issued the mayday on Wednesday. It is a twin-engine aeroplane, which, in case of engine failure, can safely fly with the other working engine.

In its statement the airline said that the fault was not related to engine trouble, the plane would undergo an examination by engineers. Qantas also stated that engine failures as such are rarely happening and that its pilots are fully trained to manage them safely.

(With inputs from agencies)

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On Thursday, a Qantas Airways flight en route to Fiji from Sydney had to turn back after a possible mechanical failure. This is the Australian airline’s second flight in just two days to experience trouble mid-air.

On Thursday, a Qantas Airways flight en route to Fiji from Sydney had to turn back after a possible mechanical failure. This is the Australian airline’s second flight in just two days to experience trouble mid-air. On Wednesday (January 18) emergency services were called to assemble as part of an “emergency response” after Qantas Flight QF144 from Auckland, New Zealand to Sydney, Australia had issued a mid-air mayday call after experiencing trouble with one of its engines. Also read | Qantas flight issues mid-air 'mayday' after trouble with engine; makes safe landing at Sydney airport In the latest incident, Flight QF101 was forced to return to Sydney after pilots received a fault indicator about a potential mechanical issue, reports Bloomberg. As per Qantas, following the fault indicator, the crew followed standard procedure, and the aircraft made a normal landing in Sydney. Also read | Nepal plane tragedy: Hospitals return bodies from air crash to grieving families The Thursday flight was also a Boeing Co. 737, a plane of the same model as the one that had been issued the mayday on Wednesday. It is a twin-engine aeroplane, which, in case of engine failure, can safely fly with the other working engine. In its statement the airline said that the fault was not related to engine trouble, the plane would undergo an examination by engineers. Qantas also stated that engine failures as such are rarely happening and that its pilots are fully trained to manage them safely. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Two flights in two days: Another Qantas airplane reports mid-air trouble; forced to turn back

China Southern Airlines became the first Chinese carrier to employ a Boeing 737 MAX passenger aircraft after staying inoperative for four years.&nbsp;On Friday, two Boeing 737 Max 8s took flight from the airline's hub at Guangzhou Baiyun Internation Airport (CAN). Their destinations were Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO) and Wuhan Tianhe International Airport (WUH), respectively.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/business-economy/apple-ceo-tim-cook-takes-a-40-pay-cut-stock-performance-to-drive-his-compensation-552185">Apple CEO Tim Cook takes a 40% pay cut, stock performance to drive his compensation</a>

The first flight from Guangzhou to Zhenzhou, CZ3960, took off at 12:45, operated by aircraft B-1206 from 2017, according to flightradar24.com. Shortly after, the second flight, CZ8276, from Guangzhou to Wuhan departed at 14:26. B-1127, delivered to the airline in September 2018, operated the second flight.&nbsp;

In 2019, China grounded the Boeing 737 MAX becoming the first country to do so, following the crashes by Lion Air and Ethiopian Airlines, leaving 346 dead.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Why egg prices have soared 60% in a year

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However, in December 2021, the airline authorities declared the aircraft fit for service. But the Chinese airlines took their time to prepare the flight for back-to-the-field action due to the strained relations between the United States and China.&nbsp;

As the country opens borders ahead of the Lunar New Year holidays, China's airlines have to meet a significant rise in demand for domestic and international air travel.&nbsp;

In October 2022, MIAT Mongolian Airlines became the first one to bring the aircraft Boeing 737 MAX to China after the grounding. However, China Southern Airlines pushed the aircraft's schedule to operate several flights for China Southern Airlines. Earlier, uncertainties about the Boeing 737 MAX left its future in doubt.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China Southern Airlines became the first Chinese carrier to employ a Boeing 737 MAX passenger aircraft after staying inoperative for four years. On Friday, two Boeing 737 Max 8s took flight from the airline's hub at Guangzhou Baiyun Internation Airport (CAN).

China Southern Airlines became the first Chinese carrier to employ a Boeing 737 MAX passenger aircraft after staying inoperative for four years. On Friday, two Boeing 737 Max 8s took flight from the airline's hub at Guangzhou Baiyun Internation Airport (CAN). Their destinations were Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO) and Wuhan Tianhe International Airport (WUH), respectively. Also Read | Apple CEO Tim Cook takes a 40% pay cut, stock performance to drive his compensation The first flight from Guangzhou to Zhenzhou, CZ3960, took off at 12:45, operated by aircraft B-1206 from 2017, according to flightradar24.com. Shortly after, the second flight, CZ8276, from Guangzhou to Wuhan departed at 14:26. B-1127, delivered to the airline in September 2018, operated the second flight. In 2019, China grounded the Boeing 737 MAX becoming the first country to do so, following the crashes by Lion Air and Ethiopian Airlines, leaving 346 dead. Watch | Why egg prices have soared 60% in a year However, in December 2021, the airline authorities declared the aircraft fit for service. But the Chinese airlines took their time to prepare the flight for back-to-the-field action due to the strained relations between the United States and China. As the country opens borders ahead of the Lunar New Year holidays, China's airlines have to meet a significant rise in demand for domestic and international air travel. In October 2022, MIAT Mongolian Airlines became the first one to bring the aircraft Boeing 737 MAX to China after the grounding. However, China Southern Airlines pushed the aircraft's schedule to operate several flights for China Southern Airlines. Earlier, uncertainties about the Boeing 737 MAX left its future in doubt. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China: Boeing 737 MAX takes first flight after staying grounded for four years

On Monday, the commercial Boeing 737 Max flight by the MIAT Mongolian Airlines landed in China, making it the first commercial flight by the model in the country since it was grounded by the government in March 2019. Since then Beijing has not returned to commercial service.

The data from flight tracking websites FlightRadar24 and VariFlight shows that Flight OM235 was operating a round trip between Mongolia’s capital Ulaanbaatar and Guangzhou city in China. According to the airlines' website, MIAT Mongolian Airlines has also scheduled and listed the same flight again on October 17 and October 24 which will be using the Boeing 737 Max.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-airlines-pilots-oppose-granting-deadline-to-boeing-for-cockpit-system-upgrade-522912">US pilots union opposes extending exemption for cockpit alert upgrade in Boeing 737 MAX planes</a>

The 737 planes have returned to commercial service in almost every country but China and Russia, as the latter has been sanctioned over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Meanwhile, Boeing said that it would begin remarketing some of the planes meant for Chinese customers, last month. US regulators lifted the ban in late 2020, followed by Europe and other countries since said the reports.&nbsp;

“We continue to work with global regulators and our customers to safely return the 737 Max to service worldwide,” said Boeing in a statement but refused to comment any further on this development.&nbsp;

The 737 Max flights were grounded after they were involved in two fatal crashes, one in Indonesia (October 2018) and the other in Ethiopia (March 2019). Notably, China was the first one to ground the flight model.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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On Monday, the commercial Boeing 737 Max flight by the MIAT Mongolian Airlines landed in China, making it the first commercial flight by the model in the country since it was grounded by the government in March 2019.

On Monday, the commercial Boeing 737 Max flight by the MIAT Mongolian Airlines landed in China, making it the first commercial flight by the model in the country since it was grounded by the government in March 2019. Since then Beijing has not returned to commercial service. The data from flight tracking websites FlightRadar24 and VariFlight shows that Flight OM235 was operating a round trip between Mongolia’s capital Ulaanbaatar and Guangzhou city in China. According to the airlines' website, MIAT Mongolian Airlines has also scheduled and listed the same flight again on October 17 and October 24 which will be using the Boeing 737 Max. ALSO READ: US pilots union opposes extending exemption for cockpit alert upgrade in Boeing 737 MAX planes The 737 planes have returned to commercial service in almost every country but China and Russia, as the latter has been sanctioned over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Meanwhile, Boeing said that it would begin remarketing some of the planes meant for Chinese customers, last month. US regulators lifted the ban in late 2020, followed by Europe and other countries since said the reports. “We continue to work with global regulators and our customers to safely return the 737 Max to service worldwide,” said Boeing in a statement but refused to comment any further on this development. The 737 Max flights were grounded after they were involved in two fatal crashes, one in Indonesia (October 2018) and the other in Ethiopia (March 2019). Notably, China was the first one to ground the flight model. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Boeing 737 Max flight lands in China after nearly four years, say reports

The US Federal Aviation Administration(FAA) on Wednesday approved Boeing's request to fly its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-in-talks-with-alaska-airlines-for-potential-737-max-order-333758">737 MAX</a> aircraft again nearly two years after it was grounded due to two fatal air crashes.

FAA Administrator Steve Dickson who had piloted test flights during the approval process said he was "100 per cent comfortable" having his family fly the jet.

Boeing Chief Executive David Calhoun said: "We will never forget the lives lost in the two tragic accidents that led to the decision to suspend operations, adding,"These events and the lessons we have learned as a result have reshaped our company and further focused our attention on our core values of safety, quality and integrity."

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-737-max-crashes-company-hid-design-flaws-from-pilots-and-regulators-says-us-panel-328083">737 MAX</a> plane was involved in crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia in which 346 people were killed in 2018 and 2019. After FAA's decision to stop Boeing from flying the 737 MAX, several countries moved to ban the plane from flying in their country.

However, the families of the Ethiopian crash victims said they felt "sheer disappointment and renewed grief" after FAA's decision.

The US House of Representatives had earlier in its report in September had said that Boeing had failed in its design and development and that the FAA had failed in its oversight.

Boeing meanwhile said FAA's action as an "important milestone" in the company's journey to restoring its reputation.

The US Federal Aviation Administration(FAA) on Wednesday approved Boeing's request to fly its 737 MAX aircraft again nearly two years after it was grounded due to two fatal air crashes.

The US Federal Aviation Administration(FAA) on Wednesday approved Boeing's request to fly its 737 MAX aircraft again nearly two years after it was grounded due to two fatal air crashes. FAA Administrator Steve Dickson who had piloted test flights during the approval process said he was "100 per cent comfortable" having his family fly the jet. Boeing Chief Executive David Calhoun said: "We will never forget the lives lost in the two tragic accidents that led to the decision to suspend operations, adding,"These events and the lessons we have learned as a result have reshaped our company and further focused our attention on our core values of safety, quality and integrity." The 737 MAX plane was involved in crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia in which 346 people were killed in 2018 and 2019. After FAA's decision to stop Boeing from flying the 737 MAX, several countries moved to ban the plane from flying in their country. However, the families of the Ethiopian crash victims said they felt "sheer disappointment and renewed grief" after FAA's decision. The US House of Representatives had earlier in its report in September had said that Boeing had failed in its design and development and that the FAA had failed in its oversight. Boeing meanwhile said FAA's action as an "important milestone" in the company's journey to restoring its reputation.

US regulators clear Boeing 737 MAX planes to fly again

Boeing Co deliveries slowed even further in May from April as the coronavirus pandemic's crushing impact on airlines added to a year of crisis following the grounding of its 737 MAX planes, company data showed on Tuesday.

The US&nbsp;planemaker said it handed over just four planes in May, down from the six it delivered in April, its lowest total for the month in six decades and about 87 per cent&nbsp;fewer than it delivered to customers at the same time a year ago.

Deliveries are financially important to planemakers because airlines pay most of the purchase price when they actually receive the plane.

Customers also canceled orders for another 18 planes last month, including 14 MAX jets that were the company's top-selling plane until a pair of crashes just over a year ago.

While Boeing resumed production last week and expects to make deliveries of the MAX in the third quarter, many aircraft leasing companies and airlines, including Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, and Brazil's GOL have canceled or deferred delivery as the industry faces a collapse in air travel since January.

Earlier on Tuesday, Reuters reported Emirates, one of the world's biggest long-haul airlines, laid off hundreds of pilots and thousands of cabin crew.

Boeing shares fell more than 3 per cent&nbsp;by the early afternoon.

Boeing did score nine new orders for wide body planes and its deliveries included two 777 freighters, one 737 NG (Next Generation)-based aircraft for the US&nbsp;military and one 767 freighter, but no passenger planes.

The May cancellations came from a host of aircraft-leasing firms, including three from Aviation Capital Group, one from CIT Aviation, four from General Electric Co's leasing division and six unidentified customers.

Leasing firms, which control over 40 per cent&nbsp;of the global fleet, are among the largest MAX customers.

After further accounting adjustments representing jets ordered in previous years but now unlikely to be delivered, Boeing's adjusted net orders sank to a negative 602 airplanes.

Boeing Co deliveries slowed even further in May from April as the coronavirus pandemic's crushing impact on airlines added to a year of crisis following the grounding of its 737 MAX planes, company data showed on Tuesday.

Boeing Co deliveries slowed even further in May from April as the coronavirus pandemic's crushing impact on airlines added to a year of crisis following the grounding of its 737 MAX planes, company data showed on Tuesday. The US planemaker said it handed over just four planes in May, down from the six it delivered in April, its lowest total for the month in six decades and about 87 per cent fewer than it delivered to customers at the same time a year ago. Deliveries are financially important to planemakers because airlines pay most of the purchase price when they actually receive the plane. Customers also canceled orders for another 18 planes last month, including 14 MAX jets that were the company's top-selling plane until a pair of crashes just over a year ago. While Boeing resumed production last week and expects to make deliveries of the MAX in the third quarter, many aircraft leasing companies and airlines, including Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, and Brazil's GOL have canceled or deferred delivery as the industry faces a collapse in air travel since January. Earlier on Tuesday, Reuters reported Emirates, one of the world's biggest long-haul airlines, laid off hundreds of pilots and thousands of cabin crew. Boeing shares fell more than 3 per cent by the early afternoon. Boeing did score nine new orders for wide body planes and its deliveries included two 777 freighters, one 737 NG (Next Generation)-based aircraft for the US military and one 767 freighter, but no passenger planes. The May cancellations came from a host of aircraft-leasing firms, including three from Aviation Capital Group, one from CIT Aviation, four from General Electric Co's leasing division and six unidentified customers. Leasing firms, which control over 40 per cent of the global fleet, are among the largest MAX customers. After further accounting adjustments representing jets ordered in previous years but now unlikely to be delivered, Boeing's adjusted net orders sank to a negative 602 airplanes.

Boeing jet deliveries sink to just four in May

US airplane giant Boeing has resumed production of its beleaguered 737 MAX aircraft at its Renton factory in Washington, after a hiatus of five months.

In a statement on Wednesday, Boeing also confirmed that the 737 programme will gradually ramp up production this year.

Boeing halted its 737 MAX production in January after the aircraft was grounded worldwide. More than 800 737 MAX jets have since been globally grounded -- after investigators found flawed flight control software on the aircraft was partially responsible for two crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia.

The two crashes had together killed 346 people.

The 737 programme began building airplanes at a low rate as it implemented more than a dozen initiatives focussed on enhancing workplace safety and product quality, the statement said.

During the temporary suspension of production that began in January, mechanics and engineers collaborated to refine and standardise work packages in each position of the factory. New processes will ensure that employees have everything they need to build the airplane, the company added.

US airplane giant Boeing has resumed production of its beleaguered 737 MAX aircraft at its Renton factory in Washington, after a hiatus of five months. In a statement on Wednesday, Boeing also confirmed that the 737 programme will gradually ramp up production this year.

US airplane giant Boeing has resumed production of its beleaguered 737 MAX aircraft at its Renton factory in Washington, after a hiatus of five months. In a statement on Wednesday, Boeing also confirmed that the 737 programme will gradually ramp up production this year. Boeing halted its 737 MAX production in January after the aircraft was grounded worldwide. More than 800 737 MAX jets have since been globally grounded -- after investigators found flawed flight control software on the aircraft was partially responsible for two crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia. The two crashes had together killed 346 people. The 737 programme began building airplanes at a low rate as it implemented more than a dozen initiatives focussed on enhancing workplace safety and product quality, the statement said. During the temporary suspension of production that began in January, mechanics and engineers collaborated to refine and standardise work packages in each position of the factory. New processes will ensure that employees have everything they need to build the airplane, the company added.

Boeing resumes 737 MAX production

US aviation regulators plan to require Boeing to rewire all 737 MAX aircraft before allowing the troubled planes fly again, the Wall Street Journal has reported.

The MAX has been grounded worldwide since an Ethiopian Airlines flight crashed shortly after take-off last March, less than six months after the same model was involved in a similar fatal accident in Indonesia.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-report-on-737-max-crash-faults-boeing-design-says-lion-air-made-mistakes-258127">&nbsp;Indonesia report on 737 MAX crash faults Boeing design, says Lion Air made mistakes</a>

Both accidents saw uncontrolled drops in the aircraft's nose in the moments before the planes crashed, which investigators have blamed on the model's anti-stall flight system.&nbsp;

Regulators have since concluded that the current wiring layout violated safety standards to prevent short-circuits that could cause similar sharp drops in aircraft pitch, the newspaper said Sunday.

The order to modify the wiring would apply to the nearly 800 MAX plans already produced, including those already in the hands of airlines, according to the report.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-issue-with-boeing-737-maxs-computer-software-discovered-sources-275070">New issue with Boeing 737 Max's computer software discovered: Sources</a>

The Federal Aviation Authority said in a statement that it was working with the company to "address a recently discovered wiring issue" on the aircraft but did not confirm the Journal's report.

"The aircraft will be cleared for return to passenger service only after the FAA is satisfied that all safety-related issues are addressed," it added.

Boeing told AFP it was discussing the wiring issue with regulators but still expected the planes to return to service mid-year.&nbsp;

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All 157 people aboard the Ethiopian Airlines jet were killed when it crashed shortly after take-off from Addis Ababa last March.&nbsp;

It followed the October 2018 crash of a 737 MAX operated by Lion Air in Indonesia, which killed 189 people when it crashed moments after leaving Jakarta airport.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/phased-ungrounding-of-boeing-737-max-possible-ceo-muilenburg-249083">Phased ungrounding of Boeing 737 MAX possible: CEO Muilenburg</a>

Boeing was accused of brushing off the concerns of engineers to release a "fundamentally flawed" aircraft by a damning US congressional report earlier this month.&nbsp;

The investigation also said the FAA had failed to exercise its oversight of the company and ignored warnings about the aircraft's safety flaws from its own experts. 
&nbsp;

US aviation regulators plan to require Boeing to rewire all 737 MAX aircraft before allowing the troubled planes fly again, the Wall Street Journal has reported.

US aviation regulators plan to require Boeing to rewire all 737 MAX aircraft before allowing the troubled planes fly again, the Wall Street Journal has reported. The MAX has been grounded worldwide since an Ethiopian Airlines flight crashed shortly after take-off last March, less than six months after the same model was involved in a similar fatal accident in Indonesia. Also Read: Indonesia report on 737 MAX crash faults Boeing design, says Lion Air made mistakes Both accidents saw uncontrolled drops in the aircraft's nose in the moments before the planes crashed, which investigators have blamed on the model's anti-stall flight system. Regulators have since concluded that the current wiring layout violated safety standards to prevent short-circuits that could cause similar sharp drops in aircraft pitch, the newspaper said Sunday. The order to modify the wiring would apply to the nearly 800 MAX plans already produced, including those already in the hands of airlines, according to the report. Also Read: New issue with Boeing 737 Max's computer software discovered: Sources The Federal Aviation Authority said in a statement that it was working with the company to "address a recently discovered wiring issue" on the aircraft but did not confirm the Journal's report. "The aircraft will be cleared for return to passenger service only after the FAA is satisfied that all safety-related issues are addressed," it added. Boeing told AFP it was discussing the wiring issue with regulators but still expected the planes to return to service mid-year. × All 157 people aboard the Ethiopian Airlines jet were killed when it crashed shortly after take-off from Addis Ababa last March. It followed the October 2018 crash of a 737 MAX operated by Lion Air in Indonesia, which killed 189 people when it crashed moments after leaving Jakarta airport. Also Read: Phased ungrounding of Boeing 737 MAX possible: CEO Muilenburg Boeing was accused of brushing off the concerns of engineers to release a "fundamentally flawed" aircraft by a damning US congressional report earlier this month. The investigation also said the FAA had failed to exercise its oversight of the company and ignored warnings about the aircraft's safety flaws from its own experts.

US regulators to force Boeing to rewire 737 MAX jets: Report

Stop migrants crossing in Aegean Sea: Erdogan to Turkey coastguard

As Greece faced fresh violence on its borders on Saturday, Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan ordered the Turkish coastguard to prevent migrants crossing the Aegean sea. <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/stop-migrants-crossing-in-aegean-sea-erdogan-to-turkey-coastguard-284932">Read More</a>

US Congress report faults Federal Aviation Administration, Boeing for 737 Max crashes

In a 13-page report, a US congressional committee said Federal Aviation Administration(FAA) and Boeing missed "multiple red flags and clear data points”.&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/us-congress-report-faults-federal-aviation-administration-boeing-for-737-max-crashes-284939">Read More</a>

Melania Trump tweets about White House tennis pavilion as US battles coronavirus

US First lady Melania Trump shared with her social media followers the status on the construction of a new White House tennis pavilion. <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/melania-trump-tweets-about-white-house-tennis-pavilion-as-us-battles-coronavirus-284927">Read More</a>

Tourism industry across the world takes a hit as COVID-19 spreads more widely

The global tourism industry is the worst affected due to COVID-19 as the breakout of coronavirus has turned businesses upside down.&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/tourism-industry-across-the-world-takes-a-hit-as-covid-19-spreads-more-widely-284923">Read More</a>

Senior member of Iran's Revolutionary Guards killed in Syria: Report

A senior member of Iran's Revolutionary Guards, Farhad Dabirian, was "martyred" in Syria on Friday, Fars news agency reported, without giving details of how he died.&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/senior-member-of-irans-revolutionary-guards-killed-in-syria-report-284924">Read More</a>

Philippines' Duterte to declare public health emergency to combat coronavirus

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte plans to declare a nationwide public health emergency following confirmation of the country's first community transmission of the disease, the presidential aide said on Saturday. <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/philippines-duterte-to-declare-public-health-emergency-to-combat-coronavirus-284922">Read More</a>

Former Barcelona forward Ronaldinho arrested in Paraguay

Former Brazil and Barcelona forward Ronaldinho Gaucho was arrested in Paraguay on Friday for attempting to enter the country with an adulterated passport, Paraguayan police said.&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/former-barcelona-forward-ronaldinho-arrested-in-paraguay-284891">Read More</a>

Trump replaces acting chief of staff Mulvaney with North Carolina lawmaker

President Donald Trump parted ways on Friday with acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney and replaced him with conservative lawmaker and close ally Mark Meadows, who was a strong Trump defender during the Democratic impeachment drive.&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/trump-replaces-acting-chief-of-staff-mulvaney-with-north-carolina-lawmaker-284889">Read More</a>

Saudi Arabia detains two senior royals, including king's brother: Report

Saudi Arabia has detained two senior members of the Saudi royal family&nbsp;Prince Ahmed bin Abdulaziz, the younger brother of King Salman, and Mohammed bin Nayef, the king's nephew, two sources with knowledge of the matter said.<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/saudi-arabia-detains-two-senior-royals-including-kings-brother-report-284871"> Read More</a>

Coronavirus may cause $61 million loss to Pakistan: ADB

Cash strapped Pakistan may face losses up to $ 61 million due to the deadly coronavirus outbreak, the ADB has said in its assessment report on the impact of the novel COVID-19 outbreak. <a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/coronavirus-may-cause-61-million-loss-to-pakistan-adb-284934">Read More</a>

Stop migrants crossing in Aegean Sea: Erdogan to Turkey coastguard As Greece faced fresh violence on its borders on Saturday, Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan ordered the Turkish coastguard to prevent migrants crossing the Aegean sea.

Stop migrants crossing in Aegean Sea: Erdogan to Turkey coastguard As Greece faced fresh violence on its borders on Saturday, Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan ordered the Turkish coastguard to prevent migrants crossing the Aegean sea. Read More US Congress report faults Federal Aviation Administration, Boeing for 737 Max crashes In a 13-page report, a US congressional committee said Federal Aviation Administration(FAA) and Boeing missed "multiple red flags and clear data points”. Read More Melania Trump tweets about White House tennis pavilion as US battles coronavirus US First lady Melania Trump shared with her social media followers the status on the construction of a new White House tennis pavilion. Read More Tourism industry across the world takes a hit as COVID-19 spreads more widely The global tourism industry is the worst affected due to COVID-19 as the breakout of coronavirus has turned businesses upside down. Read More Senior member of Iran's Revolutionary Guards killed in Syria: Report A senior member of Iran's Revolutionary Guards, Farhad Dabirian, was "martyred" in Syria on Friday, Fars news agency reported, without giving details of how he died. Read More Philippines' Duterte to declare public health emergency to combat coronavirus Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte plans to declare a nationwide public health emergency following confirmation of the country's first community transmission of the disease, the presidential aide said on Saturday. Read More Former Barcelona forward Ronaldinho arrested in Paraguay Former Brazil and Barcelona forward Ronaldinho Gaucho was arrested in Paraguay on Friday for attempting to enter the country with an adulterated passport, Paraguayan police said. Read More Trump replaces acting chief of staff Mulvaney with North Carolina lawmaker President Donald Trump parted ways on Friday with acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney and replaced him with conservative lawmaker and close ally Mark Meadows, who was a strong Trump defender during the Democratic impeachment drive. Read More Saudi Arabia detains two senior royals, including king's brother: Report Saudi Arabia has detained two senior members of the Saudi royal family Prince Ahmed bin Abdulaziz, the younger brother of King Salman, and Mohammed bin Nayef, the king's nephew, two sources with knowledge of the matter said. Read More Coronavirus may cause $61 million loss to Pakistan: ADB Cash strapped Pakistan may face losses up to $ 61 million due to the deadly coronavirus outbreak, the ADB has said in its assessment report on the impact of the novel COVID-19 outbreak. Read More

Top 10 world news today: Erdogan on migrants, Iran army member killed in Syria & more!

It’s not too often that a commercial film is made based the Indian aviation sector, but Director Sudha Kongara’s “Soorarai Pottru”(Hail the Brave) is not only an aviation film but is also based on Captain G.R. Gopinath, the founder of the erstwhile Deccan Airways. Started in 2003, Air Deccan made flying an affordable reality for India’s masses. True to the mission of Captain Gopinath, whose life the film takes inspiration from, the launch function of the film’s track “Veyyon Silli” took place on board a Boeing 737 Aircraft, which flew for over 40 minutes over Chennai skies, carrying the film’s crew, media personnel and over 100 underprivileged kids, their teachers and parents.

A Special Spicejet Boeing 737 aircraft with the film’s poster painted on it was unveiled in the presence of the film’s crew and Spicejet’s Chairman and Managing Director Ajay Singh. “We are delighted to be a part of this venture as this is a story that needs to be told. This is the first-ever movie to be made on the Indian civil aviation industry. Captain Gopinath is an icon as he helped ordinary people dream that they could one day fly and made it a reality” Ajay Singh said.

Speaking to the media, Actor Suriya said, “We chose students from government schools across Tamil Nadu based on an essay writing competition. We had asked them to write and describe what they would do if they were given a chance to travel on a plane. Many of them had written that they would like for their parents or siblings to have that opportunity instead”.&nbsp;

He added that “Whatever inventions are introduced, it is meaningless if not made affordable and accessible. In the year 2000, less than one per cent of Indian the population was able to fly(affordability). Captain Gopinath changed the whole industry and took the common man to the skies”. Emphasizing that G.R. Gopinath had revolutionized the aviation sector, Suriya said that the film was a tribute to him and showered praise on director Sudha Kongara for her vision and decade-long work on the project.

“Suriya promised me creative freedom when I worked on this film and he gave me enough creative freedom which took me higher than this Boeing 737,” said the film’s director Sudha Kongara.&nbsp;

Post the media address on the tarmac and the unveiling of the special aircraft, the single “Veyyon Silli”(A shard of the sun) was launched onboard the aircraft. The special Boeing 737 took off at around 3:20, amidst loud cheers from the kids and was flown over the Chennai city, with the captain urging the first-time flyers and young passengers to look towards their sides to spot the M.A Chidambaram cricket stadium and the iconic Marina beach. Given the short duration of the trip, the aircraft was flown at a low altitude of 14,000 feet (as opposed to the usual 30000 feet and above). The flight that lasted a little over 40 minutes was flown majorly over the Bay of Bengal, offering breathtaking views of the Chennai port, the large merchant vessels and scattered fishing trawlers in the high-seas.

After the release of the track, music director G.V. Prakash Kumar spoke about the song and said that they had chosen to make use of folk instruments and lyrics(with a tinge of Madurai-Tamil) for the song while presenting it in a stylish format. “I’m hoping that after this film, biopics become more popular in Tamil cinema,” he said. Amidst cheers from the kids, the composer crooned a few lines of the track via the in-flight Public address system.

“Right from my childhood age I have seen aircraft flying over our homes and heard the loud roar, I have always dreamt of travelling by plane, but today it has become a reality for me. I was hoping that I would travel by flight after earning on my own, but today Suriya Anna(elder brother) made it possible for me. It was an epic experience to view Chennai city from above and cruise in the midst of clouds, it felt so surreal”, said Abitha, a student in a school run by Suriya’s charity - Agaram Foundation.

Varun, a student of class 8th in Vellore district said that he was someone who would be really thrilled even during train journeys, but now that he was flying in an aircraft with actor Suriya, he felt like he was on cloud nine.

The sequences of the film involving scenes off airports and aircraft were filmed at various airports and locations across India, including Raigarh, Begumpet, Tambaram Air Force Base etc.&nbsp;

The film is bankrolled by 2D entertainment and Academy award winner Guneet Monga’s Sikhya Entertainment. Mentioning that this was her first Tamil film, Ms Monga said she enjoyed the experience of working on this film.

It’s not too often that a commercial film is made based the Indian aviation sector, but Director Sudha Kongara’s “Soorarai Pottru”(Hail the Brave) is not only an aviation film but is also based on Captain G.

It’s not too often that a commercial film is made based the Indian aviation sector, but Director Sudha Kongara’s “Soorarai Pottru”(Hail the Brave) is not only an aviation film but is also based on Captain G.R. Gopinath, the founder of the erstwhile Deccan Airways. Started in 2003, Air Deccan made flying an affordable reality for India’s masses. True to the mission of Captain Gopinath, whose life the film takes inspiration from, the launch function of the film’s track “Veyyon Silli” took place on board a Boeing 737 Aircraft, which flew for over 40 minutes over Chennai skies, carrying the film’s crew, media personnel and over 100 underprivileged kids, their teachers and parents. A Special Spicejet Boeing 737 aircraft with the film’s poster painted on it was unveiled in the presence of the film’s crew and Spicejet’s Chairman and Managing Director Ajay Singh. “We are delighted to be a part of this venture as this is a story that needs to be told. This is the first-ever movie to be made on the Indian civil aviation industry. Captain Gopinath is an icon as he helped ordinary people dream that they could one day fly and made it a reality” Ajay Singh said. Speaking to the media, Actor Suriya said, “We chose students from government schools across Tamil Nadu based on an essay writing competition. We had asked them to write and describe what they would do if they were given a chance to travel on a plane. Many of them had written that they would like for their parents or siblings to have that opportunity instead”. He added that “Whatever inventions are introduced, it is meaningless if not made affordable and accessible. In the year 2000, less than one per cent of Indian the population was able to fly(affordability). Captain Gopinath changed the whole industry and took the common man to the skies”. Emphasizing that G.R. Gopinath had revolutionized the aviation sector, Suriya said that the film was a tribute to him and showered praise on director Sudha Kongara for her vision and decade-long work on the project. “Suriya promised me creative freedom when I worked on this film and he gave me enough creative freedom which took me higher than this Boeing 737,” said the film’s director Sudha Kongara. Post the media address on the tarmac and the unveiling of the special aircraft, the single “Veyyon Silli”(A shard of the sun) was launched onboard the aircraft. The special Boeing 737 took off at around 3:20, amidst loud cheers from the kids and was flown over the Chennai city, with the captain urging the first-time flyers and young passengers to look towards their sides to spot the M.A Chidambaram cricket stadium and the iconic Marina beach. Given the short duration of the trip, the aircraft was flown at a low altitude of 14,000 feet (as opposed to the usual 30000 feet and above). The flight that lasted a little over 40 minutes was flown majorly over the Bay of Bengal, offering breathtaking views of the Chennai port, the large merchant vessels and scattered fishing trawlers in the high-seas. After the release of the track, music director G.V. Prakash Kumar spoke about the song and said that they had chosen to make use of folk instruments and lyrics(with a tinge of Madurai-Tamil) for the song while presenting it in a stylish format. “I’m hoping that after this film, biopics become more popular in Tamil cinema,” he said. Amidst cheers from the kids, the composer crooned a few lines of the track via the in-flight Public address system. “Right from my childhood age I have seen aircraft flying over our homes and heard the loud roar, I have always dreamt of travelling by plane, but today it has become a reality for me. I was hoping that I would travel by flight after earning on my own, but today Suriya Anna(elder brother) made it possible for me. It was an epic experience to view Chennai city from above and cruise in the midst of clouds, it felt so surreal”, said Abitha, a student in a school run by Suriya’s charity - Agaram Foundation. Varun, a student of class 8th in Vellore district said that he was someone who would be really thrilled even during train journeys, but now that he was flying in an aircraft with actor Suriya, he felt like he was on cloud nine. The sequences of the film involving scenes off airports and aircraft were filmed at various airports and locations across India, including Raigarh, Begumpet, Tambaram Air Force Base etc. The film is bankrolled by 2D entertainment and Academy award winner Guneet Monga’s Sikhya Entertainment. Mentioning that this was her first Tamil film, Ms Monga said she enjoyed the experience of working on this film.

A sky-high launch for Suriya's aviation-film 'Soorarai Pottru'

Boeing reported its first annual loss in more than two decades Wednesday as the lengthy grounding of the 737 MAX undercut the company's revenues and exploded costs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/boeing-says-737-max-planes-return-delayed-until-mid-2020-275914">Also Read:&nbsp;Boeing delays return of 737 MAX planes until mid-2020</a>

The aerospace giant reported a $1.0 billion loss in the fourth-quarter and a loss of $636 million for all of 2019, the company's first year in the red since 1997.

Newly-installed Chief Executive David Calhoun, who took the reins this month to stabilize the situation, pledged to turn the company around even as Boeing disclosed $9.2 billion in new costs connected to the MAX.

Some analysts had expected new costs twice as high, and despite the hefty charges, Boeing shares rallied early Wednesday in pre-market.&nbsp;

The MAX has been grounded since March following two crashes that killed 346 people which opened the doors to intense scrutiny of Boeing's safety practices -- and regulatory oversight of its productions -- as well bruising congressional investigations which have revealed a troublesome culture at the aviation giant.

"We are committed to transparency and excellence in everything we do," Calhoun said in a statement. "Safety will underwrite every decision, every action and every step we take as we move forward."

Calhoun has been at the helm of Boeing only since January 13 after Dennis Muilenburg was ousted in December following criticism of his handling of the crisis, and immediately after damning series of internal communications were released.

Calhoun is targeting mid-2020 to win approval from aviation regulators to resume flights on the MAX, which is seen as a more realistic timeframe after Muilenburg repeatedly pushed a more optimistic schedule.

- Higher costs - 
The grounding of the MAX dented Boeing's earnings in multiple ways, halting deliveries of new planes to customers, a major source of revenues.

Boeing revenues in the fourth quarter plunged 36.8 percent to $17.9 billion, while revenues for all of 2019 dropped 24.3 percent to $76.6 billion.

The crisis also prompted the manufacturer to first reduce and then halt production of the MAX until the crisis is resolved.

Boeing said Wednesday the changes in the production schedule added $2.6 billion in costs connected to airplane deliveries, plus another $4 billion in "abnormal production costs" primarily in 2020 associated with the suspension of the MAX and a "gradual resumption" of production.

The company set aside $2.6 billion to compensate airlines that have been forced to cancel thousands of flights due to grounded MAX planes and undelivered aircraft.

The MAX crisis also has weighed on numerous suppliers, such as Spirit AeroSystems, which announced earlier this month that it would lay off 2,800 employees in Kansas due to the production stoppage.

And General Electric, which builds engines for the MAX, said the crisis lowered cash flow by $1.4 billion for 2019.

Boeing also announced Wednesday that it would again cut back production of the 787 Dreamliner, a top-selling plane that has supported revenues during the protracted 737 MAX grounding.

The aerospace giant plans to cut production to 10 airplanes a month in early 2021 through 2023 based on the "near-term market outlook," Boeing said. &nbsp;

The company in October had dropped to 12 a month from 14 due to lower orders from China.

Boeing shares rose 2.4 percent to $324.25 in pre-market trading.

Boeing reported its first annual loss in more than two decades Wednesday as the lengthy grounding of the 737 MAX undercut the company's revenues and exploded costs.

Boeing reported its first annual loss in more than two decades Wednesday as the lengthy grounding of the 737 MAX undercut the company's revenues and exploded costs. Also Read: Boeing delays return of 737 MAX planes until mid-2020 The aerospace giant reported a $1.0 billion loss in the fourth-quarter and a loss of $636 million for all of 2019, the company's first year in the red since 1997. Newly-installed Chief Executive David Calhoun, who took the reins this month to stabilize the situation, pledged to turn the company around even as Boeing disclosed $9.2 billion in new costs connected to the MAX. Some analysts had expected new costs twice as high, and despite the hefty charges, Boeing shares rallied early Wednesday in pre-market. The MAX has been grounded since March following two crashes that killed 346 people which opened the doors to intense scrutiny of Boeing's safety practices -- and regulatory oversight of its productions -- as well bruising congressional investigations which have revealed a troublesome culture at the aviation giant. "We are committed to transparency and excellence in everything we do," Calhoun said in a statement. "Safety will underwrite every decision, every action and every step we take as we move forward." Calhoun has been at the helm of Boeing only since January 13 after Dennis Muilenburg was ousted in December following criticism of his handling of the crisis, and immediately after damning series of internal communications were released. Calhoun is targeting mid-2020 to win approval from aviation regulators to resume flights on the MAX, which is seen as a more realistic timeframe after Muilenburg repeatedly pushed a more optimistic schedule. - Higher costs - The grounding of the MAX dented Boeing's earnings in multiple ways, halting deliveries of new planes to customers, a major source of revenues. Boeing revenues in the fourth quarter plunged 36.8 percent to $17.9 billion, while revenues for all of 2019 dropped 24.3 percent to $76.6 billion. The crisis also prompted the manufacturer to first reduce and then halt production of the MAX until the crisis is resolved. Boeing said Wednesday the changes in the production schedule added $2.6 billion in costs connected to airplane deliveries, plus another $4 billion in "abnormal production costs" primarily in 2020 associated with the suspension of the MAX and a "gradual resumption" of production. The company set aside $2.6 billion to compensate airlines that have been forced to cancel thousands of flights due to grounded MAX planes and undelivered aircraft. The MAX crisis also has weighed on numerous suppliers, such as Spirit AeroSystems, which announced earlier this month that it would lay off 2,800 employees in Kansas due to the production stoppage. And General Electric, which builds engines for the MAX, said the crisis lowered cash flow by $1.4 billion for 2019. Boeing also announced Wednesday that it would again cut back production of the 787 Dreamliner, a top-selling plane that has supported revenues during the protracted 737 MAX grounding. The aerospace giant plans to cut production to 10 airplanes a month in early 2021 through 2023 based on the "near-term market outlook," Boeing said. The company in October had dropped to 12 a month from 14 due to lower orders from China. Boeing shares rose 2.4 percent to $324.25 in pre-market trading.

737 MAX effect: Boeing reports first annual loss in over two decades

Boeing Co's&nbsp;ousted&nbsp;chief executive officer, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-ceo-muilenburg-steps-down-calhoun-to-take-over-duties-starting-january-269812">Dennis Muilenburg</a>, is leaving the company with $62&nbsp;million&nbsp;in compensation and pension benefits but will receive no&nbsp;severance&nbsp;pay&nbsp;in the wake of the 737 MAX crisis.

Muilenburg was fired from the job in December as Boeing failed to contain the fallout from a pair of fatal crashes that halted output of the company's bestselling <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/boeing-papers-would-you-put-your-family-on-a-737-max-273413">737 MAX jetliner</a> and tarnished its reputation with airlines and regulators.

The compensation figures were disclosed in a regulatory filing late on Friday during a difficult week for Boeing when it also released hundreds of internal messages, two major issues hanging over the company before new&nbsp;CEO&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/new-boeing-boss-david-calhoun-is-a-tough-minded-veteran-of-crisis-269920">David Calhoun</a> starts on Monday.

Watch:&nbsp;Boeing emails reveal Max 737 designed by clowns

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The messages contained harshly critical comments about the development of the 737 MAX, including one that said the plane was "designed by clowns who in turn are supervised by monkeys."

The 737 MAX has been grounded since March following the second of two crashes that together killed 346 people within a span of five months.

"It is incredibly heart wrenching to see the man at the heart of our loss walk away with a reward," said Zipporah Kuria, whose 55-year-old father from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kenya-four-civilians-killed-in-al-shabaab-gunfight-with-police-on-telecom-mast-272760">Kenya</a> died in the second crash.

Lawmakers also blasted Boeing.

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346 people died. And yet, Dennis Muilenburg pressured regulators and put profits ahead of the safety of passengers, pilots, and flight attendants. He'll walk away with an additional $62.2 million. This is corruption, plain and simple. <a href="https://t.co/3JVeWAVwNo">https://t.co/3JVeWAVwNo</a>
— Elizabeth Warren (@ewarren) <a href="https://twitter.com/ewarren/status/1215797514122813440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"346 people died. And yet, Dennis Muilenburg pressured regulators and put profits ahead of the safety of passengers, pilots, and flight attendants. He'll walk away with an additional $62.2&nbsp;million. This is corruption, plain and simple," US&nbsp;Senator <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-gives-lawmakers-formal-notice-of-iraq-strike-amid-complaints-from-democrats-272196">Elizabeth Warren</a> said on Twitter.

US&nbsp;Representative<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-recommends-737-max-simulator-training-before-return-to-service-272832"> Peter DeFazio</a>, who chairs the House Transportation Committee, said minutes of a June 2013 meeting showed that Boeing sought to avoid expensive training and simulator requirements by misleading regulators about an anti-stall system called MCAS that was later tied to the two crashes that killed 346 people.

The MAX has been grounded since the second crash in March.

Speculation that Muilenburg would be fired had been circulating in the industry for months, intensifying in October when the board stripped him of his chairman's title - although he had also twice won expressions of confidence from Calhoun,&nbsp;Boeing's&nbsp;board chairman.

A turnaround veteran and former General Electric Co executive who has led several companies in crisis, Calhoun will receive a base salary at an annual rate of $1.4&nbsp;million&nbsp;and is eligible for $26.5&nbsp;million&nbsp;in long-term incentive compensation, Boeing said in a filing.

Boeing said in November Muilenburg had volunteered to give up his 2019 bonus and stock awards. For 2018, his bonus and equity awards amounted to some $20&nbsp;million, according to filings.

In addition to the $62&nbsp;million&nbsp;in compensation and pension benefits, Muilenburg holds stock options that vested in 2013, Boeing said. They would be worth $18.5&nbsp;million&nbsp;at the closing price on Friday.

"Upon his departure, Dennis received the benefits to which he was contractually entitled and he did not receive any&nbsp;severance&nbsp;pay&nbsp;or a 2019 annual bonus," Boeing said in a statement.

Boeing Co's ousted chief executive officer, Dennis Muilenburg, is leaving the company with $62 million in compensation and pension benefits but will receive no severance pay in the wake of the 737 MAX crisis.

Boeing Co's ousted chief executive officer, Dennis Muilenburg, is leaving the company with $62 million in compensation and pension benefits but will receive no severance pay in the wake of the 737 MAX crisis. Muilenburg was fired from the job in December as Boeing failed to contain the fallout from a pair of fatal crashes that halted output of the company's bestselling 737 MAX jetliner and tarnished its reputation with airlines and regulators. The compensation figures were disclosed in a regulatory filing late on Friday during a difficult week for Boeing when it also released hundreds of internal messages, two major issues hanging over the company before new CEO David Calhoun starts on Monday. Watch: Boeing emails reveal Max 737 designed by clowns × The messages contained harshly critical comments about the development of the 737 MAX, including one that said the plane was "designed by clowns who in turn are supervised by monkeys." The 737 MAX has been grounded since March following the second of two crashes that together killed 346 people within a span of five months. "It is incredibly heart wrenching to see the man at the heart of our loss walk away with a reward," said Zipporah Kuria, whose 55-year-old father from Kenya died in the second crash. Lawmakers also blasted Boeing. 346 people died. And yet, Dennis Muilenburg pressured regulators and put profits ahead of the safety of passengers, pilots, and flight attendants. He'll walk away with an additional $62.2 million. This is corruption, plain and simple. https://t.co/3JVeWAVwNo — Elizabeth Warren (@ewarren) January 11, 2020 × "346 people died. And yet, Dennis Muilenburg pressured regulators and put profits ahead of the safety of passengers, pilots, and flight attendants. He'll walk away with an additional $62.2 million. This is corruption, plain and simple," US Senator Elizabeth Warren said on Twitter. US Representative Peter DeFazio, who chairs the House Transportation Committee, said minutes of a June 2013 meeting showed that Boeing sought to avoid expensive training and simulator requirements by misleading regulators about an anti-stall system called MCAS that was later tied to the two crashes that killed 346 people. The MAX has been grounded since the second crash in March. Speculation that Muilenburg would be fired had been circulating in the industry for months, intensifying in October when the board stripped him of his chairman's title - although he had also twice won expressions of confidence from Calhoun, Boeing's board chairman. A turnaround veteran and former General Electric Co executive who has led several companies in crisis, Calhoun will receive a base salary at an annual rate of $1.4 million and is eligible for $26.5 million in long-term incentive compensation, Boeing said in a filing. Boeing said in November Muilenburg had volunteered to give up his 2019 bonus and stock awards. For 2018, his bonus and equity awards amounted to some $20 million, according to filings. In addition to the $62 million in compensation and pension benefits, Muilenburg holds stock options that vested in 2013, Boeing said. They would be worth $18.5 million at the closing price on Friday. "Upon his departure, Dennis received the benefits to which he was contractually entitled and he did not receive any severance pay or a 2019 annual bonus," Boeing said in a statement.

Boeing's ousted CEO Dennis Muilenburg leaves company with $62 million but no severance pay

Unverified pictures of a missile-looking structure shared online by Iranian accounts have fanned speculations around the Ukrainian airplane crash.&nbsp;

The images suggest the existence of a missile attack on the Ukranian International Airlines airplane that crashed on Wednesday in Iran.&nbsp;

According to reports, some Iranian users have reportedly posted pictures of debris that shows something resembling a section of a missile.&nbsp;

The image of debris was reportedly taken from in front of a house in Iraq's Parand city, close to Tehran where the Ukrainian airplane crashed at the primary airport.&nbsp;

However, the theory of a missile shooting down the Ukrainian Boeing 737 could be a far-fetched one with Ukrainian and Iranian authorities blaming the crash on technical shortcomings.&nbsp;

<img alt="Ukranian International Airlines" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a099c67-3845-4015-9344-1b38385d77c0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2814%29_3.jpg" />

The Ukrainian embassy to Iran on Wednesday said that engine failure caused the crash of a Ukrainian airliner in Iran, rather than a missile attack or act of terrorism, news agency Reuters reported.

In an official statement, the Ukraine International Airline said that the Boeing 737 was built in the year 2016 and had undergone a maintenance check only <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/crashed-boeing-underwent-maintenance-checks-2-days-before-accident-ukraine-airline-273006">two days before the crash took place</a>.

"The plane was manufactured in 2016, it was received by the airline directly from the (Boeing) factory. The plane underwent its last planned technical maintenance on January 6, 2020," the airlines said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-boeing-737-airliner-turned-was-headed-to-airport-when-it-crashed-iran-civil-aviation-authority-273145">Ukrainian Boeing 737 airliner turned, was headed to airport when it crashed</a>

Ukraine confirmed that all passengers and crew on flight PS752 of Ukraine International Airline were killed in the crash - a total of around 170 people with around 82 Iranians, 63 Canadians, three Britons and 9 crew members.&nbsp;

<img alt="​​​​​​​​" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="090af0c9-1618-435c-812d-7d109afb8a4f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2813%29_3.jpg" />

&nbsp;

"We will surely find out the truth. For this purpose, a thorough and independent investigation will be conducted in accordance with international law," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said calling for a thorough probe into the mishap.

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The plane took from Tehran's Imam Khomeini airport and disappeared from radars just a few minutes later, crashing in Tehran province.

Iranian authorities claim that the plane had caught fire due to some technical snag in the engine and was already on fire before it came crashing down.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Iran's civil aviation investigators said that the plane tried heading back to the airport on detecting the problem.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

"The plane, which was initially headed west to leave the airport zone, turned right following a problem and was headed back to the airport at the moment of the crash," the Iranian Civil Aviation Organisation said. As per reports, the pilot of the plane did not make a radio call for help.&nbsp;

Iran said it had recovered the plane's black boxes without commenting on what it plans to do with it. Tehran has refused to hand over the boxes to Boeing and US authorities.&nbsp;

Ukraine International Airlines, in the meanwhile, announced the suspension of all operations to Tehran until further notice.&nbsp;

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has also called for a &nbsp;probe into the crash while demanding Ottawa's involvement in the investigation.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Unverified pictures of a missile-looking structure shared online by Iranian accounts have fanned speculations around the Ukrainian airplane crash. The images suggest the existence of a missile attack on the Ukranian International Airlines airplane that crashed on Wednesday in Iran.

Unverified pictures of a missile-looking structure shared online by Iranian accounts have fanned speculations around the Ukrainian airplane crash. The images suggest the existence of a missile attack on the Ukranian International Airlines airplane that crashed on Wednesday in Iran. According to reports, some Iranian users have reportedly posted pictures of debris that shows something resembling a section of a missile. The image of debris was reportedly taken from in front of a house in Iraq's Parand city, close to Tehran where the Ukrainian airplane crashed at the primary airport. However, the theory of a missile shooting down the Ukrainian Boeing 737 could be a far-fetched one with Ukrainian and Iranian authorities blaming the crash on technical shortcomings. The Ukrainian embassy to Iran on Wednesday said that engine failure caused the crash of a Ukrainian airliner in Iran, rather than a missile attack or act of terrorism, news agency Reuters reported. In an official statement, the Ukraine International Airline said that the Boeing 737 was built in the year 2016 and had undergone a maintenance check only two days before the crash took place. "The plane was manufactured in 2016, it was received by the airline directly from the (Boeing) factory. The plane underwent its last planned technical maintenance on January 6, 2020," the airlines said. Also read: Ukrainian Boeing 737 airliner turned, was headed to airport when it crashed Ukraine confirmed that all passengers and crew on flight PS752 of Ukraine International Airline were killed in the crash - a total of around 170 people with around 82 Iranians, 63 Canadians, three Britons and 9 crew members. "We will surely find out the truth. For this purpose, a thorough and independent investigation will be conducted in accordance with international law," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said calling for a thorough probe into the mishap. × The plane took from Tehran's Imam Khomeini airport and disappeared from radars just a few minutes later, crashing in Tehran province. Iranian authorities claim that the plane had caught fire due to some technical snag in the engine and was already on fire before it came crashing down. Meanwhile, Iran's civil aviation investigators said that the plane tried heading back to the airport on detecting the problem. "The plane, which was initially headed west to leave the airport zone, turned right following a problem and was headed back to the airport at the moment of the crash," the Iranian Civil Aviation Organisation said. As per reports, the pilot of the plane did not make a radio call for help. Iran said it had recovered the plane's black boxes without commenting on what it plans to do with it. Tehran has refused to hand over the boxes to Boeing and US authorities. Ukraine International Airlines, in the meanwhile, announced the suspension of all operations to Tehran until further notice. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has also called for a probe into the crash while demanding Ottawa's involvement in the investigation. (With inputs from agencies)

Western intel agencies, Iran and Ukraine dismiss theory of missile downing Ukrainian plane

Boeing has decided to suspend the production of the 737 Max aircraft. This comes six months after the fleet was grounded in March after two fatal air crashes that killed 346 people.&nbsp;

On WION Edit, we list some lessons to be learnt from the Boeing saga. One of the biggest assembly-line halts in Boeing's history.

Boeing will see a cash burn of around 1 billion dollars per month due to the production halt.

What are the lessons?

Lesson number 1. Don't take passengers lightly. It has been 9 months since the 737 max has been grounded after two fatal crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia.

Had Boeing been open and grounded the planes after the first crash, it could have prevented the second one. But Boeing kept diverting attention to software upgrades.

Boeing's former manager spoke about the alarming conditions at the factory in Washington, he said that Boeing's boosted production despite not having enough mechanics and workers.

The problem is, he came out last month and not earlier. Not when lives could have been saved. And greed always hurts, Boeing is bleeding.

Boeing shares saw the worst fall since 2001 soon after Ethiopia crash.

Lesson number 2. Don't presume that the user will manage software changes. In both the fatal air crashes, the crew did not react in the ways Boeing assumed because they weren't trained. Safety assessment was off the mark. It's incredible that Boeing would take the safety of the passengers for granted.

Lesson number 3. A lot needs to be done to bring some sense to aviation regulation. Several countries continued to fly these planes even after the lion air crash as they were waiting for an FAA decision.

Besides, Boeing continued to deliver these planes till its march 2019 grounding. All those practices are under the scanner now.

Boeing may have thought that the support of the US government would be enough to escape action, but overconfidence and greed will cause Boeing to bleed a billion dollars a month. 
 
(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)&nbsp;

Boeing has decided to suspend the production of the 737 Max aircraft. This comes six months after the fleet was grounded in March after two fatal air crashes that killed 346 people.

Boeing has decided to suspend the production of the 737 Max aircraft. This comes six months after the fleet was grounded in March after two fatal air crashes that killed 346 people. On WION Edit, we list some lessons to be learnt from the Boeing saga. One of the biggest assembly-line halts in Boeing's history. Boeing will see a cash burn of around 1 billion dollars per month due to the production halt. What are the lessons? Lesson number 1. Don't take passengers lightly. It has been 9 months since the 737 max has been grounded after two fatal crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia. Had Boeing been open and grounded the planes after the first crash, it could have prevented the second one. But Boeing kept diverting attention to software upgrades. Boeing's former manager spoke about the alarming conditions at the factory in Washington, he said that Boeing's boosted production despite not having enough mechanics and workers. The problem is, he came out last month and not earlier. Not when lives could have been saved. And greed always hurts, Boeing is bleeding. Boeing shares saw the worst fall since 2001 soon after Ethiopia crash. Lesson number 2. Don't presume that the user will manage software changes. In both the fatal air crashes, the crew did not react in the ways Boeing assumed because they weren't trained. Safety assessment was off the mark. It's incredible that Boeing would take the safety of the passengers for granted. Lesson number 3. A lot needs to be done to bring some sense to aviation regulation. Several countries continued to fly these planes even after the lion air crash as they were waiting for an FAA decision. Besides, Boeing continued to deliver these planes till its march 2019 grounding. All those practices are under the scanner now. Boeing may have thought that the support of the US government would be enough to escape action, but overconfidence and greed will cause Boeing to bleed a billion dollars a month. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: The fall of Brand Boeing

Boeing Co has been awarded a $6.5 billion US defence contract for Joint Direct Attack Munition tail kits, spares, repairs and technical services, the Pentagon said on Friday.

More than 300 Boeing 737 MAX 8 and MAX 9 passenger jets around the world were&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/virtually-every-single-boeing-737-max-plane-around-the-world-now-stands-grounded-203177">taken out of service</a>&nbsp;earlier this year following two fatal crashes in Ethiopia and Indonesia that killed almost 350 people in all.

The crashes triggered investigations by aviation regulators and US lawmakers and left Chicago-based Boeing facing one of the biggest crises in its more than 100-year history.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-ceo-apologises-says-crisis-has-shaken-public-confidence-in-company-222655">Boeing's</a>&nbsp;chairman and CEO Dennis Muilenburg said in a CNBC interview that the company hasn't received any orders for its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/faa-considered-grounding-some-boeing-737-max-planes-last-year-source-214840">737 Max planes</a>&nbsp;since the aircraft was grounded following two deadly crashes.

&nbsp;

Boeing Co has been awarded a $6.5 billion US defence contract for Joint Direct Attack Munition tail kits, spares, repairs and technical services, the Pentagon said on Friday.

Boeing Co has been awarded a $6.5 billion US defence contract for Joint Direct Attack Munition tail kits, spares, repairs and technical services, the Pentagon said on Friday. More than 300 Boeing 737 MAX 8 and MAX 9 passenger jets around the world were taken out of service earlier this year following two fatal crashes in Ethiopia and Indonesia that killed almost 350 people in all. The crashes triggered investigations by aviation regulators and US lawmakers and left Chicago-based Boeing facing one of the biggest crises in its more than 100-year history. Boeing's chairman and CEO Dennis Muilenburg said in a CNBC interview that the company hasn't received any orders for its 737 Max planes since the aircraft was grounded following two deadly crashes.

Boeing wins $6.5 billion United States defense contract: Pentagon

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-has-not-received-any-737-max-orders-since-grounding-ceo-224136">Boeing&nbsp;Co</a> learned that a cockpit warning light on its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/boeing-software-fix-for-737-max-is-ready-219337">737 MAX jetliner</a> was defective in 2017 but decided to defer fixing it until 2020, US lawmakers said on Friday.

The defective warning light alerts pilots when two sensors that measure the angle between the airflow and the wing disagree. Faulty "angle of attack" data is suspected of playing a role in two deadly crashes involving&nbsp;Boeing's best-selling 737 MAX in Indonesia in October and in Ethiopia in March.

Those crashes, which killed 346 people, have triggered investigations by aviation regulators and US lawmakers and left Chicago-based Boeing facing one of the biggest crises in its more than 100-year history.

Boeing&nbsp;decided in November 2017 to defer a software update to correct the so-called AOA Disagree alert defect until 2020, three years after discovering the flaw, US&nbsp;Congressmen Peter DeFazio and Rick Larsen said in a press release on Friday.&nbsp;Boeing&nbsp;only accelerated this schedule after the Lion Air accident in Indonesia, they added.

Watch: A Flying Risk? New Defects Detected In Boeing Planes

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Boeing&nbsp;spokesman Gordon Johndroe said by email that a company safety review found the absence of the AOA Disagree alert did not adversely impact airplane safety or operation.

"Based on the safety review, the update was scheduled for the MAX 10 entry into service in 2020," Johndroe said. "We fell short in the implementation of the AoA Disagree alert and are taking steps to address these issues so they do not occur again."

Boeing&nbsp;has said it discovered the problem in 2017, soon after it began delivering its top-selling 737 MAX aircraft to customers. But it did not inform the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) about the defect until after the Lion Air crash more than one year later, the lawmakers said.

The House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure sent letters to&nbsp;Boeing, supplier United Technologies Corp and the FAA requesting further details on the AoA Disagree alert, the lawmakers said.

The letter was the second such records request sent by the committee to&nbsp;Boeing&nbsp;and the FAA related to its investigation into the MAX aircraft.

Boeing Co learned that a cockpit warning light on its 737 MAX jetliner was defective in 2017 but decided to defer fixing it until 2020, US lawmakers said on Friday.

Boeing Co learned that a cockpit warning light on its 737 MAX jetliner was defective in 2017 but decided to defer fixing it until 2020, US lawmakers said on Friday. The defective warning light alerts pilots when two sensors that measure the angle between the airflow and the wing disagree. Faulty "angle of attack" data is suspected of playing a role in two deadly crashes involving Boeing's best-selling 737 MAX in Indonesia in October and in Ethiopia in March. Those crashes, which killed 346 people, have triggered investigations by aviation regulators and US lawmakers and left Chicago-based Boeing facing one of the biggest crises in its more than 100-year history. Boeing decided in November 2017 to defer a software update to correct the so-called AOA Disagree alert defect until 2020, three years after discovering the flaw, US Congressmen Peter DeFazio and Rick Larsen said in a press release on Friday. Boeing only accelerated this schedule after the Lion Air accident in Indonesia, they added. Watch: A Flying Risk? New Defects Detected In Boeing Planes × Boeing spokesman Gordon Johndroe said by email that a company safety review found the absence of the AOA Disagree alert did not adversely impact airplane safety or operation. "Based on the safety review, the update was scheduled for the MAX 10 entry into service in 2020," Johndroe said. "We fell short in the implementation of the AoA Disagree alert and are taking steps to address these issues so they do not occur again." Boeing has said it discovered the problem in 2017, soon after it began delivering its top-selling 737 MAX aircraft to customers. But it did not inform the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) about the defect until after the Lion Air crash more than one year later, the lawmakers said. The House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure sent letters to Boeing, supplier United Technologies Corp and the FAA requesting further details on the AoA Disagree alert, the lawmakers said. The letter was the second such records request sent by the committee to Boeing and the FAA related to its investigation into the MAX aircraft.

Boeing delayed fix of defective 737 MAX warning light for three years: US lawmakers

Billionaire Warren Buffett, one of the world's most influential businessmen, said Saturday that he would not hesitate to fly in a Boeing 737 Max airplane, despite the grounding of the planes after two fatal crashes.

"I will never hesitate even for a second to fly on a 737 MAX," he said in response to a question from AFP on the sidelines of the annual shareholder meeting of his Berkshire Hathaway empire in Omaha.

While Buffett, the world's third-richest man, owns stakes in several of the most prestigious American companies -- from Coca-Cola to JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs to Apple and, recently, Amazon -- he holds no shares in Boeing, though he has invested in airlines.&nbsp;

Buffett was responding to a question about the damage to Boeing's reputation after 737 MAX planes were involved in two fatal crashes that left a total of nearly 350 people dead in a span of less than five months.

Boeing's entire 737 MAX fleet has been grounded since shortly after the latest crash in March, while investigators study the incidents and engineers work on solutions. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Another Boeing plane -- a 737 model that preceded the MAX line -- was involved in a rough landing late Friday in Jacksonville, Florida, when it skidded off a runway and into a river, but without causing any serious injuries.

"Planes have never been so safe," Buffett said, even as he encouraged Boeing CEO Dennis Muilenburg to always make safety a priority.

Billionaire Warren Buffett, one of the world's most influential businessmen, said Saturday that he would not hesitate to fly in a Boeing 737 Max airplane, despite the grounding of the planes after two fatal crashes.

Billionaire Warren Buffett, one of the world's most influential businessmen, said Saturday that he would not hesitate to fly in a Boeing 737 Max airplane, despite the grounding of the planes after two fatal crashes. "I will never hesitate even for a second to fly on a 737 MAX," he said in response to a question from AFP on the sidelines of the annual shareholder meeting of his Berkshire Hathaway empire in Omaha. While Buffett, the world's third-richest man, owns stakes in several of the most prestigious American companies -- from Coca-Cola to JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs to Apple and, recently, Amazon -- he holds no shares in Boeing, though he has invested in airlines. Buffett was responding to a question about the damage to Boeing's reputation after 737 MAX planes were involved in two fatal crashes that left a total of nearly 350 people dead in a span of less than five months. Boeing's entire 737 MAX fleet has been grounded since shortly after the latest crash in March, while investigators study the incidents and engineers work on solutions. Another Boeing plane -- a 737 model that preceded the MAX line -- was involved in a rough landing late Friday in Jacksonville, Florida, when it skidded off a runway and into a river, but without causing any serious injuries. "Planes have never been so safe," Buffett said, even as he encouraged Boeing CEO Dennis Muilenburg to always make safety a priority.

I will never hesitate to fly in Boeing 737 MAX: Warren Buffett

American Airlines announced Sunday it would scrap some 115 flights per day in the coming months because its fleet of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-cuts-737-production-rate-by-10-planes-per-month-208263">Boeing 737 MAX planes is being grounded</a> until August 19.

America's leading airline had previously only planned to keep the planes out of commission until June 5, with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/virtually-every-single-boeing-737-max-plane-around-the-world-now-stands-grounded-203177">Boeing facing intense scrutiny</a> after 157 people died in an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/family-of-american-woman-sues-boeing-ethiopian-airlines-over-737-max-crash-208108">Ethiopian Airlines 737 MAX crash</a> on March 10 -- the second deadly crash involving the aircraft in five months.

The global fleet of 737 MAX planes has been barred from flying since mid-March.

"These 115 flights represent approximately 1.5 per cent of American's total flying each day this summer," American Airlines chairman and CEO Doug Parker said in a statement.

But he stressed his confidence in the aircraft overall.

"Based upon our ongoing work with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Boeing, we are highly confident that the MAX will be recertified prior to this time (August 19)," he said.

"By extending our cancellations through the summer, we can plan more reliably for the peak travel season and provide confidence to our customers and team members when it comes to their travel plans.&nbsp;

"Once the MAX is recertified, we anticipate bringing our MAX aircraft back online as spares to supplement our operation as needed during the summer."

American Airlines had lowered one of its first-quarter indicators in light of the Boeing 737 MAX 8 planes being grounded, along with the partial US government shutdown and technical challenges.

Earlier this week, competitor Southwest Airlines said it would operate its 34 aircraft of the same model starting August 5.

American Airlines announced Sunday it would scrap some 115 flights per day in the coming months because its fleet of Boeing 737 MAX planes is being grounded until August 19.

American Airlines announced Sunday it would scrap some 115 flights per day in the coming months because its fleet of Boeing 737 MAX planes is being grounded until August 19. America's leading airline had previously only planned to keep the planes out of commission until June 5, with Boeing facing intense scrutiny after 157 people died in an Ethiopian Airlines 737 MAX crash on March 10 -- the second deadly crash involving the aircraft in five months. The global fleet of 737 MAX planes has been barred from flying since mid-March. "These 115 flights represent approximately 1.5 per cent of American's total flying each day this summer," American Airlines chairman and CEO Doug Parker said in a statement. But he stressed his confidence in the aircraft overall. "Based upon our ongoing work with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Boeing, we are highly confident that the MAX will be recertified prior to this time (August 19)," he said. "By extending our cancellations through the summer, we can plan more reliably for the peak travel season and provide confidence to our customers and team members when it comes to their travel plans. "Once the MAX is recertified, we anticipate bringing our MAX aircraft back online as spares to supplement our operation as needed during the summer." American Airlines had lowered one of its first-quarter indicators in light of the Boeing 737 MAX 8 planes being grounded, along with the partial US government shutdown and technical challenges. Earlier this week, competitor Southwest Airlines said it would operate its 34 aircraft of the same model starting August 5.

American Airlines cancels 115 flights daily over Boeing 737 MAX until August

Budget airline SpiceJet Ltd said on Friday it planned to lease a "first lot" of 16 Boeing Co 737-800s to help fill a gap in aviation capacity that ratings agency ICRA said has pushed up fares by 30 to 40 per cent since September.

SpiceJet had cancelled some flights due to the grounding of its 12 737 MAX planes after Ethiopian Airlines' deadly March 10 crash. However, the bulk of the reduction, which ICRA said removed 15 per cent of market capacity, is due to Jet Airways Ltd grounding more than three-quarters of its fleet as a result of funding problems.

"The sudden reduction of aviation capacity has created a challenging environment in the sector," SpiceJet Chairman Ajay Singh said in a statement. "SpiceJet is committed to working closely with the government authorities to augment capacity and minimise passenger inconvenience."

India's civil aviation minister Suresh Prabhu has directed the civil aviation secretary to review issues related to Jet Airways and take steps to minimise the inconvenience to passengers and ensure their safety, the minister said in a Tweet on Friday.

Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCCA) has de-registered 11 737-800s that had been leased by Jet Airways on request from lessors, the agency's website said, and another 14 requests for de-registration remain pending.

SpiceJet did not say whether it planned to lease planes that had previously been flown by Jet. The budget carrier's shares rose 5 per cent in early trade on Friday.

Budget airline SpiceJet Ltd said on Friday it planned to lease a "first lot" of 16 Boeing Co 737-800s to help fill a gap in aviation capacity that ratings agency ICRA said has pushed up fares by 30 to 40 per cent since September.

Budget airline SpiceJet Ltd said on Friday it planned to lease a "first lot" of 16 Boeing Co 737-800s to help fill a gap in aviation capacity that ratings agency ICRA said has pushed up fares by 30 to 40 per cent since September. SpiceJet had cancelled some flights due to the grounding of its 12 737 MAX planes after Ethiopian Airlines' deadly March 10 crash. However, the bulk of the reduction, which ICRA said removed 15 per cent of market capacity, is due to Jet Airways Ltd grounding more than three-quarters of its fleet as a result of funding problems. "The sudden reduction of aviation capacity has created a challenging environment in the sector," SpiceJet Chairman Ajay Singh said in a statement. "SpiceJet is committed to working closely with the government authorities to augment capacity and minimise passenger inconvenience." India's civil aviation minister Suresh Prabhu has directed the civil aviation secretary to review issues related to Jet Airways and take steps to minimise the inconvenience to passengers and ensure their safety, the minister said in a Tweet on Friday. Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCCA) has de-registered 11 737-800s that had been leased by Jet Airways on request from lessors, the agency's website said, and another 14 requests for de-registration remain pending. SpiceJet did not say whether it planned to lease planes that had previously been flown by Jet. The budget carrier's shares rose 5 per cent in early trade on Friday.

SpiceJet to lease 16 Boeing 737s to fill gap as groundings push up fares

Boeing B737 Max makes emergency landing in Olando after engine problem

US aerospace giant <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/boeing-faces-a-major-crisis-203212">Boeing </a>said Thursday it was suspending deliveries of its top-selling 737 MAX as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/black-boxes-of-crashed-boeing-737-max-8-aircraft-sent-to-france-203253">French investigators took delivery of the black boxes</a> from the Ethiopian Airlines crash that killed all 157 passengers and crew.

The MAX has been grounded worldwide following the disaster -- the second involving the model in five months -- and the fallout has left the company, regulators and airlines scrambling to respond.

"We are pausing the delivery of the 737 MAX until we come up with a solution," a Boeing spokesman said, adding that "we are going to continue the production, but we are assessing our capacities."

France's BEA air safety agency confirmed it has received the black box recorders from the plane, which was just four months old and crashed minutes after takeoff from Addis Ababa on Sunday.&nbsp;

Starting Friday, BEA investigators will try to retrieve information from the cockpit voice and flight data recorders, which were damaged in the disaster.

Thousands of miles (kilometers) away, distraught families were demanding answers as they visited the deep black crater where the plane smashed into a field outside the capital, disintegrating on impact.

Ethiopian Airlines, Africa's largest carrier, sent the black boxes to France because it does not have the equipment to analyze the data. &nbsp;

The information that they contain helps explain 90 per cent of all crashes, according to aviation experts.

On Wednesday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-joins-other-nations-in-grounding-737-max-jets-after-second-crash-203179">US authorities</a> said new evidence showed similarities between the Ethiopia crash and that of a Lion Air flight in Indonesia in October that claimed the lives of 189 people. &nbsp;

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said findings from the crash site near Addis Ababa and "newly refined satellite data" warranted "further investigation of the possibility of a shared cause for the two incidents."

Safety of 'paramount concern'

An FAA emergency order grounded 737 MAX 8 and MAX 9 aircraft until further notice, effectively taking the aircraft out of the skies globally.

The move came after a growing number of airlines and countries had already decided not to fly the planes or ban them from their airspace until it was ascertained there are no safety issues.

US President Donald Trump told reporters the "safety of the American people and all peoples is our paramount concern."

FAA acting chief Daniel Elwell said the agency had been "working tirelessly" to find the cause of the accident but faced delays because of the damage to the flight data recorders.

The new information shows "the track of that airplane was close enough to the track of the Lion Air flight... to warrant the grounding of the airplanes so we could get more information from the black boxes and determine if there's a link between the two, and if there is, find a fix to that link," Elwell said on CNBC.

Boeing's shares have fallen 12 per cent in the days after the crash in Ethiopia, wiping out nearly $30 billion in value.&nbsp;

The MAX series is Boeing's fastest-selling model, but it is still relatively new with fewer than 500 in service.

There are 74 registered in the United States and 387 in use worldwide with 59 carriers, according to the FAA.

Pilots concerns

The accounts of the recent crashes were echoed in concerns registered by US pilots on how the MAX 8 behaves.

At least four American pilots complained following the Lion Air crash that the aircraft would suddenly pitch downward shortly after takeoff, according to documents reviewed by AFP on the Aviation Safety Reporting System, a voluntary incident database maintained by NASA.

In two anonymous reports on flights just after the Lion Air disaster, pilots disconnected the autopilot and corrected the plane's trajectory.

It was unclear if US transport authorities review the database or investigated the incidents. However, the FAA said this week it had ordered Boeing to update its flight software and training.

Questions about the Lion Air crash have honed in on an automated stall prevention system, the MCAS, designed to automatically point the plane's nose downwards if it is in danger of stalling.

According to the flight data recorder, the pilots of Lion Air Flight 610 struggled to control the aircraft as the MCAS repeatedly pushed the nose down following takeoff.

The Ethiopian Airlines pilots reported similar difficulties before their aircraft plunged to the ground as they tried to return to the airport.

Boeing was criticized after the Lion Air crash for allegedly failing to adequately inform 737 pilots about the functioning of the stall prevention system.

Ethiopian Airlines CEO Tewolde GebreMariam said the doomed flight's captain Yared Mulugeta Getachew, 29, was an experienced aviator with more than 8,000 flight hours.

US aerospace giant Boeing said Thursday it was suspending deliveries of its top-selling 737 MAX as French investigators took delivery of the black boxes from the Ethiopian Airlines crash that killed all 157 passengers and crew.

US aerospace giant Boeing said Thursday it was suspending deliveries of its top-selling 737 MAX as French investigators took delivery of the black boxes from the Ethiopian Airlines crash that killed all 157 passengers and crew. The MAX has been grounded worldwide following the disaster -- the second involving the model in five months -- and the fallout has left the company, regulators and airlines scrambling to respond. "We are pausing the delivery of the 737 MAX until we come up with a solution," a Boeing spokesman said, adding that "we are going to continue the production, but we are assessing our capacities." France's BEA air safety agency confirmed it has received the black box recorders from the plane, which was just four months old and crashed minutes after takeoff from Addis Ababa on Sunday. Starting Friday, BEA investigators will try to retrieve information from the cockpit voice and flight data recorders, which were damaged in the disaster. Thousands of miles (kilometers) away, distraught families were demanding answers as they visited the deep black crater where the plane smashed into a field outside the capital, disintegrating on impact. Ethiopian Airlines, Africa's largest carrier, sent the black boxes to France because it does not have the equipment to analyze the data. The information that they contain helps explain 90 per cent of all crashes, according to aviation experts. On Wednesday, US authorities said new evidence showed similarities between the Ethiopia crash and that of a Lion Air flight in Indonesia in October that claimed the lives of 189 people. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said findings from the crash site near Addis Ababa and "newly refined satellite data" warranted "further investigation of the possibility of a shared cause for the two incidents." Safety of 'paramount concern' An FAA emergency order grounded 737 MAX 8 and MAX 9 aircraft until further notice, effectively taking the aircraft out of the skies globally. The move came after a growing number of airlines and countries had already decided not to fly the planes or ban them from their airspace until it was ascertained there are no safety issues. US President Donald Trump told reporters the "safety of the American people and all peoples is our paramount concern." FAA acting chief Daniel Elwell said the agency had been "working tirelessly" to find the cause of the accident but faced delays because of the damage to the flight data recorders. The new information shows "the track of that airplane was close enough to the track of the Lion Air flight... to warrant the grounding of the airplanes so we could get more information from the black boxes and determine if there's a link between the two, and if there is, find a fix to that link," Elwell said on CNBC. Boeing's shares have fallen 12 per cent in the days after the crash in Ethiopia, wiping out nearly $30 billion in value. The MAX series is Boeing's fastest-selling model, but it is still relatively new with fewer than 500 in service. There are 74 registered in the United States and 387 in use worldwide with 59 carriers, according to the FAA. Pilots concerns The accounts of the recent crashes were echoed in concerns registered by US pilots on how the MAX 8 behaves. At least four American pilots complained following the Lion Air crash that the aircraft would suddenly pitch downward shortly after takeoff, according to documents reviewed by AFP on the Aviation Safety Reporting System, a voluntary incident database maintained by NASA. In two anonymous reports on flights just after the Lion Air disaster, pilots disconnected the autopilot and corrected the plane's trajectory. It was unclear if US transport authorities review the database or investigated the incidents. However, the FAA said this week it had ordered Boeing to update its flight software and training. Questions about the Lion Air crash have honed in on an automated stall prevention system, the MCAS, designed to automatically point the plane's nose downwards if it is in danger of stalling. According to the flight data recorder, the pilots of Lion Air Flight 610 struggled to control the aircraft as the MCAS repeatedly pushed the nose down following takeoff. The Ethiopian Airlines pilots reported similar difficulties before their aircraft plunged to the ground as they tried to return to the airport. Boeing was criticized after the Lion Air crash for allegedly failing to adequately inform 737 pilots about the functioning of the stall prevention system. Ethiopian Airlines CEO Tewolde GebreMariam said the doomed flight's captain Yared Mulugeta Getachew, 29, was an experienced aviator with more than 8,000 flight hours.

We are pausing delivery, but will continue production of 737 Max: Boeing

The United States on Wednesday joined Europe, China and other countries in grounding <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/full-confidence-in-safety-of-737-max-plane-boeing-203079">Boeing Co's 737 MAX jets</a>, because of safety concerns after an Ethiopian Airlines plane crash that killed 157 people, the second disaster involving the 737 in less than five months.&nbsp;

The world's biggest planemaker is facing its most serious crisis in years, as the decades-old 737 programme, one of its most reliable sources of cash and profits, takes a severe blow to its prestige.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-not-to-suspend-boeing-737-max-plane-federal-aviation-administration-202979">US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) </a>cited new satellite data and evidence from the scene of Sunday`s crash near Addis Ababa for its decision to ground the planes.&nbsp;

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It was the second time the FAA has halted flights of a Boeing plane in six years. It had grounded the 787 Dreamliner in 2013 because of problems with smoking batteries.

Shares of the Seattle-based company ended up 0.5 per cent at $377.14, recovering from a more than 3 per cent fall in the afternoon when the FAA announcement was made.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-all-boeing-737-max-planes-now-grounded-government-warns-tomorrow-will-be-real-challenging-day-203110">All Boeing 737 Max planes now grounded in India</a>

Tim Ghriskey, chief investment strategist at Inverness Counsel in New York, said the grounding gives <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/a-look-at-how-boeing-could-lose-billions-of-dollars-post-the-ethiopian-airlines-crash-203172">Boeing</a> time to address any problems and not face another potential disaster.

US airlines that operate the 737 MAX, Southwest Airlines Co, American Airlines Group Inc and United Airlines, said they were working to re-book passengers.

Southwest is the world`s largest operator of the 737 MAX 8 with 34 jets, while American flies 24 MAX 8s and United 14 MAX 9s.&nbsp;

Shares of Southwest fell 0.4 per cent.&nbsp;

"The agency made this decision as a result of the data gathering process and new evidence collected at the site and analysed today," the FAA said in a statement, shortly after US President Donald Trump announced the planes would be grounded.&nbsp;

"This evidence, together with newly refined satellite data available to FAA this morning, led to this decision."

The grounding will remain in effect as the FAA investigates.

Boeing, which maintained that its planes were safe to fly, said in a statement that it supported the move to temporarily ground 737 MAX flights.

"Boeing has determined - out of an abundance of caution and in order to reassure the flying public of the aircraft’s safety - to recommend to the FAA the temporary suspension of operations of the entire global fleet of 371 737 MAX aircraft."

The still-unexplained crash followed another involving a Boeing 737 MAX in Indonesia five months ago that killed 189 people. Although there is no proof of any link, the twin disasters have spooked passengers.

France`s air accident investigation agency BEA will analyse black-box cockpit voice and data recorders from the crashed plane, a spokesman said.

The French announcement resolved uncertainty over the fate of the two recorders after Germany`s BFU said it had declined a request to handle them because it could not process the new type of recorder used on the 737 MAX jets, in service since 2017.

Travel website Kayak was making changes to let customers exclude specific aircraft types from searches, and booking sites were looking to reroute passengers.

The grounding was welcomed by air workers in the United States. John Samuelsen, international president of the Transport Workers Union of America, which represents aviation workers and flight attendants, said the grounding of the fleet was right "both for air travellers and aviation workers."

Canada also grounded 737 MAX jets on Wednesday, saying satellite data suggested similarities to the previous crash involving the same plane model in October.

US-based aircraft-tracking firm Aireon provided the satellite data to the FAA, Transport Canada and several other authorities, company spokeswoman Jessie Hillenbrand said.&nbsp;

Aireon`s space-based system can monitor data from aircraft equipped with Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) transponders. The data is considered less detailed than that in black boxes, which look at systems running inside the plane.

Ethiopian Airlines spokesman Asrat Begashaw said it was still unclear what happened on Sunday, but its pilot had reported control issues as opposed to external factors such as birds.

"The pilot reported flight control problems and requested to turn back. In fact he was allowed to turn back," he said.&nbsp;

The chairman of the US House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Democrat Peter DeFazio, called for a probe into why the 737 MAX received certification to fly.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

"There must be a rigorous investigation into why the aircraft, which has critical safety systems that did not exist on prior models, was certified without requiring additional pilot training," he said.

Panama`s Copa Holdings said it would also suspend operations of its six Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft, but Latin America has largely left it up to carriers to make their own decisions. As of Wednesday night, regulators in Brazil, Argentina and Mexico, the largest air travel markets in the region, had not forced the grounding of planes.

The United States on Wednesday joined Europe, China and other countries in grounding Boeing Co's 737 MAX jets, because of safety concerns after an Ethiopian Airlines plane crash that killed 157 people, the second disaster involving the 737 in less than five months.

The United States on Wednesday joined Europe, China and other countries in grounding Boeing Co's 737 MAX jets, because of safety concerns after an Ethiopian Airlines plane crash that killed 157 people, the second disaster involving the 737 in less than five months. The world's biggest planemaker is facing its most serious crisis in years, as the decades-old 737 programme, one of its most reliable sources of cash and profits, takes a severe blow to its prestige. The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) cited new satellite data and evidence from the scene of Sunday`s crash near Addis Ababa for its decision to ground the planes. × It was the second time the FAA has halted flights of a Boeing plane in six years. It had grounded the 787 Dreamliner in 2013 because of problems with smoking batteries. Shares of the Seattle-based company ended up 0.5 per cent at $377.14, recovering from a more than 3 per cent fall in the afternoon when the FAA announcement was made. Also read: All Boeing 737 Max planes now grounded in India Tim Ghriskey, chief investment strategist at Inverness Counsel in New York, said the grounding gives Boeing time to address any problems and not face another potential disaster. US airlines that operate the 737 MAX, Southwest Airlines Co, American Airlines Group Inc and United Airlines, said they were working to re-book passengers. Southwest is the world`s largest operator of the 737 MAX 8 with 34 jets, while American flies 24 MAX 8s and United 14 MAX 9s. Shares of Southwest fell 0.4 per cent. "The agency made this decision as a result of the data gathering process and new evidence collected at the site and analysed today," the FAA said in a statement, shortly after US President Donald Trump announced the planes would be grounded. "This evidence, together with newly refined satellite data available to FAA this morning, led to this decision." The grounding will remain in effect as the FAA investigates. Boeing, which maintained that its planes were safe to fly, said in a statement that it supported the move to temporarily ground 737 MAX flights. "Boeing has determined - out of an abundance of caution and in order to reassure the flying public of the aircraft’s safety - to recommend to the FAA the temporary suspension of operations of the entire global fleet of 371 737 MAX aircraft." The still-unexplained crash followed another involving a Boeing 737 MAX in Indonesia five months ago that killed 189 people. Although there is no proof of any link, the twin disasters have spooked passengers. France`s air accident investigation agency BEA will analyse black-box cockpit voice and data recorders from the crashed plane, a spokesman said. The French announcement resolved uncertainty over the fate of the two recorders after Germany`s BFU said it had declined a request to handle them because it could not process the new type of recorder used on the 737 MAX jets, in service since 2017. Travel website Kayak was making changes to let customers exclude specific aircraft types from searches, and booking sites were looking to reroute passengers. The grounding was welcomed by air workers in the United States. John Samuelsen, international president of the Transport Workers Union of America, which represents aviation workers and flight attendants, said the grounding of the fleet was right "both for air travellers and aviation workers." Canada also grounded 737 MAX jets on Wednesday, saying satellite data suggested similarities to the previous crash involving the same plane model in October. US-based aircraft-tracking firm Aireon provided the satellite data to the FAA, Transport Canada and several other authorities, company spokeswoman Jessie Hillenbrand said. Aireon`s space-based system can monitor data from aircraft equipped with Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) transponders. The data is considered less detailed than that in black boxes, which look at systems running inside the plane. Ethiopian Airlines spokesman Asrat Begashaw said it was still unclear what happened on Sunday, but its pilot had reported control issues as opposed to external factors such as birds. "The pilot reported flight control problems and requested to turn back. In fact he was allowed to turn back," he said. The chairman of the US House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Democrat Peter DeFazio, called for a probe into why the 737 MAX received certification to fly. "There must be a rigorous investigation into why the aircraft, which has critical safety systems that did not exist on prior models, was certified without requiring additional pilot training," he said. Panama`s Copa Holdings said it would also suspend operations of its six Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft, but Latin America has largely left it up to carriers to make their own decisions. As of Wednesday night, regulators in Brazil, Argentina and Mexico, the largest air travel markets in the region, had not forced the grounding of planes.

US joins other nations in grounding 737 MAX jets after Ethiopian Airlines plane

WION Gravitas: Indian Aviation Regulator Finally Decides To Ground Boeing 737 Max 8 Planes

The United States told international carriers on Monday that the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/only-pilots-with-1000-hours-of-flying-experience-to-operate-boeing-737-max-dgca-202677">Boeing 737 </a>MAX 8 is airworthy as regulators scrutinize two fatal crashes of the new model of aircraft since October, but said it will mandate forthcoming "design changes" from Boeing by April.

An <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopian-plane-crash-investigators-recover-black-boxes-from-boeing-737-max-8-202673">Ethiopian Airlines 737 MAX 8 bound for Nairobi crashed</a> minutes after take-off on Sunday, killing all 157 aboard and raising questions about the safety of the new variant of the industry workhorse, one of which also <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-lion-air-plane-with-189-on-board-crashes-into-sea-authorities-search-for-remains-174139">crashed in Indonesia in October</a>, killing 189 people.

In a notice, the Federal Aviation Administration said it planned to require design changes by Boeing no later than April. Boeing is working to complete "flight control system enhancements, which provide reduced reliance on procedures associated with required pilot memory items," the FAA said.

The FAA also said Boeing "plans to update training requirements and flight crew manuals to go with the design change" to an automated protection system called the Manoeuvring Characteristics Augmentation System or MCAS. The changes also include MCAS activation and angle of attack signal enhancements.

The FAA said in the notice made public that external reports are drawing similarities between the crashes in Ethiopia and Indonesia. "However, this investigation has just begun and to date we have not been provided data to draw any conclusions or take any actions," according to the Continued Airworthiness Notification to the International Community for Boeing 737 MAX 8 operators.

US Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao told reporters regulators would not hesitate to act if they find a safety issue.

"If the FAA identifies an issue that affects safety, the department will take immediate and appropriate action," Chao told reporters. "I want people to be assured that we take these incidents, these accidents very seriously."

Boeing Co's top executive told employees on Monday he was confident in the safety of the US manufacturer's top-selling 737 MAX aircraft.

Reuters and other media outlets have reported that Boeing has for months planned design changes after the Lion Air crash in Indonesia but the FAA notice is the first public confirmation.

Canada's transport minister also said he will not hesitate to act once the cause of the crash is known.

FAA chief Dan Elwell on Monday said the notification basically "informs the international community where we are and (gives) sort of ... one answer to the whole community."

Senator Dianne Feinstein, a California Democrat, and Paul Hudson, the president of FlyersRights.org and a member of the FAA Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee, on Monday both said the plane should be grounded.

"The FAA’s 'wait and see' attitude risks lives as well as the safety reputation of the US aviation industry," Hudson said in a statement.

The National Transportation Safety Board and the FAA are both at the crash site in Ethiopia, Chao said.

Boeing's shares fell as much as 10 per cent on the prospect that two such crashes in such a short time could reveal flaws in its new plane. Boeing, whose shares closed down 5.3 per cent at $400.01 in the heaviest trading trade since July 2013, did not immediately comment Monday on the FAA notification, but said it was sending a team to Ethiopia to aid investigators.

The 737 line, which has flown for more than 50 years, is the world's best-selling modern passenger aircraft and viewed as one of the industry's most reliable.

China ordered its airlines to ground the jet, a move followed by Indonesia and Ethiopia. Other airlines, from North America to the Middle East, kept flying the 737 MAX 8 on Monday after Boeing said it was safe.

Boeing’s 737 MAX is the newest version of a jet that has been a fixture of passenger travel for decades and the cash cow of the world’s largest aircraft maker, competing against Airbus SE’s A320neo family of single-aisle jetliners. The 737 family is considered one of the industry’s most reliable aircraft.

The MAX has a bigger and more efficient engine compared to earlier 737 models.

Boeing rolled out the fuel-efficient MAX 8 in 2017 as an update to the already redesigned 50-year-old 737, and had delivered 350 MAX jets out of the total order tally of 5,011 aircraft by the end of January. 
&nbsp;

The United States told international carriers on Monday that the Boeing 737 MAX 8 is airworthy as regulators scrutinize two fatal crashes of the new model of aircraft since October, but said it will mandate forthcoming "design changes" from Boeing by April.

The United States told international carriers on Monday that the Boeing 737 MAX 8 is airworthy as regulators scrutinize two fatal crashes of the new model of aircraft since October, but said it will mandate forthcoming "design changes" from Boeing by April. An Ethiopian Airlines 737 MAX 8 bound for Nairobi crashed minutes after take-off on Sunday, killing all 157 aboard and raising questions about the safety of the new variant of the industry workhorse, one of which also crashed in Indonesia in October, killing 189 people. In a notice, the Federal Aviation Administration said it planned to require design changes by Boeing no later than April. Boeing is working to complete "flight control system enhancements, which provide reduced reliance on procedures associated with required pilot memory items," the FAA said. The FAA also said Boeing "plans to update training requirements and flight crew manuals to go with the design change" to an automated protection system called the Manoeuvring Characteristics Augmentation System or MCAS. The changes also include MCAS activation and angle of attack signal enhancements. The FAA said in the notice made public that external reports are drawing similarities between the crashes in Ethiopia and Indonesia. "However, this investigation has just begun and to date we have not been provided data to draw any conclusions or take any actions," according to the Continued Airworthiness Notification to the International Community for Boeing 737 MAX 8 operators. US Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao told reporters regulators would not hesitate to act if they find a safety issue. "If the FAA identifies an issue that affects safety, the department will take immediate and appropriate action," Chao told reporters. "I want people to be assured that we take these incidents, these accidents very seriously." Boeing Co's top executive told employees on Monday he was confident in the safety of the US manufacturer's top-selling 737 MAX aircraft. Reuters and other media outlets have reported that Boeing has for months planned design changes after the Lion Air crash in Indonesia but the FAA notice is the first public confirmation. Canada's transport minister also said he will not hesitate to act once the cause of the crash is known. FAA chief Dan Elwell on Monday said the notification basically "informs the international community where we are and (gives) sort of ... one answer to the whole community." Senator Dianne Feinstein, a California Democrat, and Paul Hudson, the president of FlyersRights.org and a member of the FAA Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee, on Monday both said the plane should be grounded. "The FAA’s 'wait and see' attitude risks lives as well as the safety reputation of the US aviation industry," Hudson said in a statement. The National Transportation Safety Board and the FAA are both at the crash site in Ethiopia, Chao said. Boeing's shares fell as much as 10 per cent on the prospect that two such crashes in such a short time could reveal flaws in its new plane. Boeing, whose shares closed down 5.3 per cent at $400.01 in the heaviest trading trade since July 2013, did not immediately comment Monday on the FAA notification, but said it was sending a team to Ethiopia to aid investigators. The 737 line, which has flown for more than 50 years, is the world's best-selling modern passenger aircraft and viewed as one of the industry's most reliable. China ordered its airlines to ground the jet, a move followed by Indonesia and Ethiopia. Other airlines, from North America to the Middle East, kept flying the 737 MAX 8 on Monday after Boeing said it was safe. Boeing’s 737 MAX is the newest version of a jet that has been a fixture of passenger travel for decades and the cash cow of the world’s largest aircraft maker, competing against Airbus SE’s A320neo family of single-aisle jetliners. The 737 family is considered one of the industry’s most reliable aircraft. The MAX has a bigger and more efficient engine compared to earlier 737 models. Boeing rolled out the fuel-efficient MAX 8 in 2017 as an update to the already redesigned 50-year-old 737, and had delivered 350 MAX jets out of the total order tally of 5,011 aircraft by the end of January.

Boeing 737 MAX 8 airworthy but it will make design changes: US