<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-report-on-737-max-crash-faults-boeing-design-says-lion-air-made-mistakes-258127">Boeing's 737 MAX</a> took centre stage at the Dubai Airshow on Tuesday as airlines announced plans to order up to 50 of the jets worth $6 billion at list prices despite a global grounding in place since March.

Kazakhstan flag carrier Air Astana said it had signed a letter of intent to order 30 Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets for its Fly Arystana subsidiary.

Air Astana, which operates <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/ge-unit-orders-25-airbus-jets-including-12-rolls-powered-a330neo-260791">Airbus</a> and Embraer jets in its main network, said it was confident in Boeing's ability to resolve problems with the MAX.

Global regulators banned commercial flights of Boeing's fastest-selling jet in March after two fatal accidents.

Plans for the jet's return to commercial service have been pushed back to early 2020 as Boeing finalises software and training revisions that need regulatory approval.

"We are making flying affordable for the people of Kazakhstan," Air Astana Chief Planning Officer Alma Aliguzhinova told reporters, adding that budget carrier Fly Arystana would start taking the jets in late 2021.

The airline plans to hold 15 aircraft directly and may finance the rest through a lease transaction, she said, adding that Air Astana would not change the composition of its main fleet.

Separately, another airline signed a firm order for 10 Boeing 737 MAX 7 and 10 Boeing MAX 10 jets, a person familiar with the matter said. The airline's name was not disclosed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-ousts-airliner-chief-as-737-max-crisis-grows-257742">Boeing </a>has used the past two major industry events to try to secure market momentum for the grounded MAX, which is seen as key to the planemaker's financial health over the coming decade.

A letter of intent between Boeing and British Airways owner IAG for 200 jets, which grabbed the spotlight at the Paris Airshow in June, has yet to be finalised as the European holding company discusses the fleet change with subsidiaries that currently use Airbus for medium-haul operations.

In other business coinciding with the largest Middle East air show on Tuesday, Saudi budget airline Flynas agreed to buy long-range A321XLR jets.

The airline's chief executive had said on Monday that Flynas was in talks to exercise purchasing options for some or all of 40 Airbus A320neo narrowboday jets.

Airbus unveiled a provisional order in Dubai for 8 of its small A220 jets from Air Senegal. Britain's easyJet exercised options for 12 more Airbus A320neo aircraft.

Also coinciding with the show, leasing giant GECAS was expected to confirm an order for 25 Airbus planes, including 12 A330neo jets powered by engines from Rolls-Royce, a competitor to GECAS parent company General Electric.

However, there were no immediate signs that Dubai's Emirates was ready to finalise a provisional order for 40 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, part of a complex set of interlocking deals driving fleet changes at the world's largest international airline.

The fate of the order hinges on negotiations over the larger Boeing 777X, for which Emirates is the largest customer. Emirates has indicated it wants to restructure the order after delays and sources say it could use the pending 787 deal as leverage.

Boeing's 737 MAX took centre stage at the Dubai Airshow on Tuesday as airlines announced plans to order up to 50 of the jets worth $6 billion at list prices despite a global grounding in place since March.

Boeing's 737 MAX took centre stage at the Dubai Airshow on Tuesday as airlines announced plans to order up to 50 of the jets worth $6 billion at list prices despite a global grounding in place since March. Kazakhstan flag carrier Air Astana said it had signed a letter of intent to order 30 Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets for its Fly Arystana subsidiary. Air Astana, which operates Airbus and Embraer jets in its main network, said it was confident in Boeing's ability to resolve problems with the MAX. Global regulators banned commercial flights of Boeing's fastest-selling jet in March after two fatal accidents. Plans for the jet's return to commercial service have been pushed back to early 2020 as Boeing finalises software and training revisions that need regulatory approval. "We are making flying affordable for the people of Kazakhstan," Air Astana Chief Planning Officer Alma Aliguzhinova told reporters, adding that budget carrier Fly Arystana would start taking the jets in late 2021. The airline plans to hold 15 aircraft directly and may finance the rest through a lease transaction, she said, adding that Air Astana would not change the composition of its main fleet. Separately, another airline signed a firm order for 10 Boeing 737 MAX 7 and 10 Boeing MAX 10 jets, a person familiar with the matter said. The airline's name was not disclosed. Boeing has used the past two major industry events to try to secure market momentum for the grounded MAX, which is seen as key to the planemaker's financial health over the coming decade. A letter of intent between Boeing and British Airways owner IAG for 200 jets, which grabbed the spotlight at the Paris Airshow in June, has yet to be finalised as the European holding company discusses the fleet change with subsidiaries that currently use Airbus for medium-haul operations. In other business coinciding with the largest Middle East air show on Tuesday, Saudi budget airline Flynas agreed to buy long-range A321XLR jets. The airline's chief executive had said on Monday that Flynas was in talks to exercise purchasing options for some or all of 40 Airbus A320neo narrowboday jets. Airbus unveiled a provisional order in Dubai for 8 of its small A220 jets from Air Senegal. Britain's easyJet exercised options for 12 more Airbus A320neo aircraft. Also coinciding with the show, leasing giant GECAS was expected to confirm an order for 25 Airbus planes, including 12 A330neo jets powered by engines from Rolls-Royce, a competitor to GECAS parent company General Electric. However, there were no immediate signs that Dubai's Emirates was ready to finalise a provisional order for 40 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, part of a complex set of interlocking deals driving fleet changes at the world's largest international airline. The fate of the order hinges on negotiations over the larger Boeing 777X, for which Emirates is the largest customer. Emirates has indicated it wants to restructure the order after delays and sources say it could use the pending 787 deal as leverage.

Sales of grounded Boeing 737 MAX gather pace at Dubai Airshow

Boeing Co cut production of its flagship Dreamliner and delayed the arrival of a successor to its 777 mini-jumbo, piling new pressures on a rejigged senior management team as the continued safety grounding of its 737 MAX sliced third-quarter profits.

Boeing Co&nbsp;reported a 53 per cent&nbsp;drop in quarterly profit on Wednesday and had a negative free cash flow of $2.89 billion in the quarter, compared with a positive free cash flow of $4.10 billion a year earlier.

Core operating earnings fell to $895 million or $1.45 per share, from $1.89 billion or $3.58 per share, a year earlier.

Boeing shares were slightly higher in premarket trading at $340.10.

The profit slump and trio of industrial setbacks capped a tumultuous week for the world's largest planemaker, already in the eighth month of a deepening crisis over the grounding of its best-selling single-aisle following <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopian-airlines-crash-pilot-reported-difficulties-had-asked-to-return-202389">deadly crashes.</a>

On Tuesday, the company ousted the top executive of its crucial airplanes division, Kevin McAllister, in an unexpected management shakeup related to the MAX crisis that senior industry sources say puts Chief Executive Dennis Muilenburg squarely in the firing line in the event of further revelations or if the company fails to recover from the MAX crisis.

Muilenburg's title of board chairman was stripped earlier this month.

Despite fresh setbacks, Boeing said it was sticking to its expectation that the MAX would return to service in the fourth quarter, though the timeline was at the mercy of regulators conducting certification reviews.

Boeing said there was "no significant change" to estimated potential concessions and other considerations to airline customers related to the 737 MAX grounding, part of the $8 billion price tag Boeing estimated for the MAX earlier this year.

"Our top priority remains the safe return to service of the 737 MAX, and we're making steady progress," Muilenburg said in a statement accompanying the results. Boeing has begun taking steps to increase safety oversight in its industrial operations and at the board level, he added.

Boeing plans to cut 787 production, delayed a planned rise in 737 production and the entry into service of the 777X twin-aisle,&nbsp;a trio of industrial setbacks broadening pressure on the company's new commercial leadership.

Boeing named veteran executive Stan Deal, who had been running its two-year-old Global Services Division, to the top job at commercial airplanes. Deal's challenge to get the MAX back into service globally while simultaneously handling new aircraft deliveries and boosting 737 production is seen as one of the most formidable logistical challenges in the industry's history.

Boeing said it was delaying plans to step up production on its 737 line in the Seattle-area through 2019, and would not hit a record-level 57 aircraft monthly until late 2020, months later than previously planned.

Citing global trade tensions, it was also reducing the 787 production rate to 12 airplanes per month for approximately two years beginning in late 2020.

Its forthcoming 777X twin-aisle, facing engine issues at General Electric, was progressing through pre-flight testing and remains on track for first flight in early 2020, but the company was now targeting early 2021 for the first delivery of the 777X.

Boeing Co cut production of its flagship Dreamliner and delayed the arrival of a successor to its 777 mini-jumbo, piling new pressures on a rejigged senior management team as the continued safety grounding of its 737 MAX sliced third-quarter profits.

Boeing Co cut production of its flagship Dreamliner and delayed the arrival of a successor to its 777 mini-jumbo, piling new pressures on a rejigged senior management team as the continued safety grounding of its 737 MAX sliced third-quarter profits. Boeing Co reported a 53 per cent drop in quarterly profit on Wednesday and had a negative free cash flow of $2.89 billion in the quarter, compared with a positive free cash flow of $4.10 billion a year earlier. Core operating earnings fell to $895 million or $1.45 per share, from $1.89 billion or $3.58 per share, a year earlier. Boeing shares were slightly higher in premarket trading at $340.10. The profit slump and trio of industrial setbacks capped a tumultuous week for the world's largest planemaker, already in the eighth month of a deepening crisis over the grounding of its best-selling single-aisle following deadly crashes. On Tuesday, the company ousted the top executive of its crucial airplanes division, Kevin McAllister, in an unexpected management shakeup related to the MAX crisis that senior industry sources say puts Chief Executive Dennis Muilenburg squarely in the firing line in the event of further revelations or if the company fails to recover from the MAX crisis. Muilenburg's title of board chairman was stripped earlier this month. Despite fresh setbacks, Boeing said it was sticking to its expectation that the MAX would return to service in the fourth quarter, though the timeline was at the mercy of regulators conducting certification reviews. Boeing said there was "no significant change" to estimated potential concessions and other considerations to airline customers related to the 737 MAX grounding, part of the $8 billion price tag Boeing estimated for the MAX earlier this year. "Our top priority remains the safe return to service of the 737 MAX, and we're making steady progress," Muilenburg said in a statement accompanying the results. Boeing has begun taking steps to increase safety oversight in its industrial operations and at the board level, he added. Boeing plans to cut 787 production, delayed a planned rise in 737 production and the entry into service of the 777X twin-aisle, a trio of industrial setbacks broadening pressure on the company's new commercial leadership. Boeing named veteran executive Stan Deal, who had been running its two-year-old Global Services Division, to the top job at commercial airplanes. Deal's challenge to get the MAX back into service globally while simultaneously handling new aircraft deliveries and boosting 737 production is seen as one of the most formidable logistical challenges in the industry's history. Boeing said it was delaying plans to step up production on its 737 line in the Seattle-area through 2019, and would not hit a record-level 57 aircraft monthly until late 2020, months later than previously planned. Citing global trade tensions, it was also reducing the 787 production rate to 12 airplanes per month for approximately two years beginning in late 2020. Its forthcoming 777X twin-aisle, facing engine issues at General Electric, was progressing through pre-flight testing and remains on track for first flight in early 2020, but the company was now targeting early 2021 for the first delivery of the 777X.

Boeing profit slumps 53% as MAX grounding takes heavy toll

Boeing&nbsp;on Tuesday ousted the top executive of its commercial airplanes division, Kevin McAllister, marking the first high-level departure since two fatal crashes of its 737 MAX jets.

The company named veteran Boeing executive Stan Deal to succeed McAllister effective immediately as president and chief executive of Boeing Commercial Airplanes (BCA). The deal had led Boeing's recently formed Global Services division.

The world's largest planemaker faces a growing crisis over the eight-month safety ban on its best-selling single-aisle jet prompted by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopian-airlines-crash-pilot-reported-difficulties-had-asked-to-return-202389">crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia</a> that killed 346 people.

Tuesday's announcement, a day before Boeing was due to report quarterly results, shocked some Boeing employees, with one insider calling McAllister a "scapegoat" and noting he came to the helm of BCA late in the 737 MAX development.

It ends a relatively unusual experiment at Boeing of handing an outsider a prominent position, and places the crucial commercial airplanes division in the hands of a long-serving Boeing insider who has relationships with important customers such as Singapore Airlines.

McAllister, a regular figure at industry conclaves, had championed an analytical, data-based approach forged in his previous position selling services for General Electric.

He was credited in part with boosting Boeing sales as part of a roving double act with sales chief Ihssane Mounir with whom he regularly toured the world clinching deals at the expense of European rival Airbus.

That sales momentum slumped to a record nine-month low after the MAX was grounded in March.

McAllister also struggled to claw back a series of industrial delays or production quality problems including delays to a military tanker and the new 777X, analysts said.

McAllister could not be reached for comment.

One person familiar with the matter said McAllister's departure had been described to staff as a "separation," a clear indication that he had been fired.

Another person said Boeing had asked McAllister to leave, giving no explanation other than saying it was the right move at the right time for the company's leadership. He added that the decision was not purely related to the MAX.

Deal joined Boeing in 1986 and in 2017 was tapped to lead the company's new Boeing Global Services unit, which sells analytics, parts and training services for airline customers.

Deal's major challenge is to get the MAX back into service while simultaneously handling deliveries of new aircraft and boosting production of the money-making single-aisle jets. That is seen as one of the most formidable logistical challenges in the industry's history. He must also get the larger, twin-aisled 777X back on track.

Beyond that, Deal will have to make decisions about a potential new mid-market jetliner code named NMA, which has been eclipsed by the MAX crisis and whose prospects now look unclear.

The management change was announced after Boeing's board met in San Antonio.

Earlier on Tuesday, Federal Aviation Administration Administrator Steve Dickson said Boeing was making progress towards winning approval to resume flights, but would need "several weeks" before a key certification test flight can take place.

Next week, Boeing Chief Executive Dennis Muilenburg, who was stripped of his title as chairman by the board this month, will testify before Congress for two days.

"We're committed to delivering on our commitments and regaining trust with our regulators, customers and other stakeholders," Muilenburg said.

A deliberate decision was made soon after the MAX crashes to make Muilenburg the public face of the company during the crisis, sources said, although he has faced criticism for what some in the industry have characterized as a wooden and lawyer-driven response to concerns raised from the crashes.

Senior industry officials said McAllister's departure leaves Muilenburg, recently stripped of his chairman title,&nbsp;squarely in the firing line in the event of further unexpected revelations or if the company fails to recover from the crisis.

"It removes one of the sandbags around him," said Nick Cunningham, aerospace analyst at UK-based Agency Partners.

New Chairman David Calhoun said the board backed the decisions. "Boeing will emerge stronger than ever from its current challenges and the changes we're making throughout Boeing will benefit the flying public well into the future," he said in a statement.

Boeing on Tuesday ousted the top executive of its commercial airplanes division, Kevin McAllister, marking the first high-level departure since two fatal crashes of its 737 MAX jets.

Boeing on Tuesday ousted the top executive of its commercial airplanes division, Kevin McAllister, marking the first high-level departure since two fatal crashes of its 737 MAX jets. The company named veteran Boeing executive Stan Deal to succeed McAllister effective immediately as president and chief executive of Boeing Commercial Airplanes (BCA). The deal had led Boeing's recently formed Global Services division. The world's largest planemaker faces a growing crisis over the eight-month safety ban on its best-selling single-aisle jet prompted by crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia that killed 346 people. Tuesday's announcement, a day before Boeing was due to report quarterly results, shocked some Boeing employees, with one insider calling McAllister a "scapegoat" and noting he came to the helm of BCA late in the 737 MAX development. It ends a relatively unusual experiment at Boeing of handing an outsider a prominent position, and places the crucial commercial airplanes division in the hands of a long-serving Boeing insider who has relationships with important customers such as Singapore Airlines. McAllister, a regular figure at industry conclaves, had championed an analytical, data-based approach forged in his previous position selling services for General Electric. He was credited in part with boosting Boeing sales as part of a roving double act with sales chief Ihssane Mounir with whom he regularly toured the world clinching deals at the expense of European rival Airbus. That sales momentum slumped to a record nine-month low after the MAX was grounded in March. McAllister also struggled to claw back a series of industrial delays or production quality problems including delays to a military tanker and the new 777X, analysts said. McAllister could not be reached for comment. One person familiar with the matter said McAllister's departure had been described to staff as a "separation," a clear indication that he had been fired. Another person said Boeing had asked McAllister to leave, giving no explanation other than saying it was the right move at the right time for the company's leadership. He added that the decision was not purely related to the MAX. Deal joined Boeing in 1986 and in 2017 was tapped to lead the company's new Boeing Global Services unit, which sells analytics, parts and training services for airline customers. Deal's major challenge is to get the MAX back into service while simultaneously handling deliveries of new aircraft and boosting production of the money-making single-aisle jets. That is seen as one of the most formidable logistical challenges in the industry's history. He must also get the larger, twin-aisled 777X back on track. Beyond that, Deal will have to make decisions about a potential new mid-market jetliner code named NMA, which has been eclipsed by the MAX crisis and whose prospects now look unclear. The management change was announced after Boeing's board met in San Antonio. Earlier on Tuesday, Federal Aviation Administration Administrator Steve Dickson said Boeing was making progress towards winning approval to resume flights, but would need "several weeks" before a key certification test flight can take place. Next week, Boeing Chief Executive Dennis Muilenburg, who was stripped of his title as chairman by the board this month, will testify before Congress for two days. "We're committed to delivering on our commitments and regaining trust with our regulators, customers and other stakeholders," Muilenburg said. A deliberate decision was made soon after the MAX crashes to make Muilenburg the public face of the company during the crisis, sources said, although he has faced criticism for what some in the industry have characterized as a wooden and lawyer-driven response to concerns raised from the crashes. Senior industry officials said McAllister's departure leaves Muilenburg, recently stripped of his chairman title, squarely in the firing line in the event of further unexpected revelations or if the company fails to recover from the crisis. "It removes one of the sandbags around him," said Nick Cunningham, aerospace analyst at UK-based Agency Partners. New Chairman David Calhoun said the board backed the decisions. "Boeing will emerge stronger than ever from its current challenges and the changes we're making throughout Boeing will benefit the flying public well into the future," he said in a statement.

Boeing ousts top executive over 737 MAX crisis

On September 12, Boeing started putting out 30-second videos in which employees tout its planes' safety, hoping to reassure travelers about the 737 MAX that's been grounded worldwide since <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-to-give-100-million-to-families-affected-by-two-737-max-crashes-232883">two crashes</a> that killed 346 people.

"Safety is at the core of our business. We have put hundreds of engineers to work to ensure that this airplane is 100 per cent ready," says Jennifer Henderson, Chief test pilot for the 737, in one of the clips.

"When the 737 MAX returns to service I will absolutely put my family on this airplane," she stressed.

But on a Facebook page for Boeing enthusiasts where the clip was posted, the response is negative.

"Well, I think she could not say it would be unsafe," one member quipped, as Boeing faces the Herculean task of trying to regain the confidence of civil aviation authorities and the public, seven months after the crash of an Ethiopian Airlines MAX that killed 157 people.

That came after the downing of a Lion Air MAX in Indonesia in October 2018, killing 189, with the plane's MCAS anti-stall system being blamed in both accidents.

It's not known when the MAX will return to service. Boeing, which still has not submitted a modified version of the MCAS system to regulators, hopes it will be before the end of the year.

"The 737 Max is, for now, an 'airplane non grata' -- a plane passengers do not want to fly," said Henry Harteveldt, president of Atmosphere Research Group in San Francisco.

"Travelers aren't merely scared of the 737 MAX, they're terrified of it."

Just 19 per cent of business travelers and 14 per cent of leisure travelers would willingly take the 737 MAX within six months of returning to the sky, according to an Atmosphere survey.

Nearly half of the 2,000 respondents said they would pay more to avoid the MAX.

Faced with this distrust, airlines are adapting.

"We will be transparent -- and communicate in advance -- with our customers who are booked to fly on a MAX aircraft, will rebook those who do not want to fly on a MAX at no charge, and for some time will not swap aircraft to a MAX if a change of aircraft is required," said a spokesperson at United Airlines, which owns 14 MAX aircraft.

American Airlines, which has 24 MAX planes, has said its company brass and employees will be the first to fly on the aircraft once it's cleared to return to the sky.

The MAX's setbacks have cast a shadow over a century of history at Boeing, a highlight of which was the success of its 747 jumbo jet, nicknamed the "Queen of the skies."

According to Harteveldt, half of the business passengers and 55 per cent of leisure passengers consider Boeing to be "irresponsible," "arrogant" and "unsafe."

Boeing's management has addressed the trust issue.

"We know that trust has been damaged over the last few months and we own that and we are working hard to re-earn that trust going forward," CEO Dennis Muilenburg said in August.

The trust may have been tested again on Friday when it emerged that some potentially significant documents at Boeing were held back from investigators for months.

Boeing says it has conducted 1,447 flight test hours as of October 13 with the modified MCAS, and Muilenburg personally took part in two tests.

From late September to mid-October, the company also invited airline pilots to simulator training and information sessions in Miami, London, Istanbul, Shanghai and Singapore.

"Boeing has no choice but to get it right this time, however uncomfortable that maybe for now," said Tracy Stewart, an editor at&nbsp;airfarewatchdog.com.

If Boeing can take comfort in anything, it may be that most travelers do not look up which jet they will fly when booking tickets.

Most commercial passengers are "worried about getting an aisle seat, and hoping the overhead bin will still have space for a carry-on," said John Dekker of online travel agency Surf City Travel.

Some experts said one of the best ways for Boeing to regain credibility is to release a video explaining the changes to the 737 MAX to make it safer.

They must "make sure they have informed the consumer that it won't happen again... PERIOD!" said Dekker.

On September 12, Boeing started putting out 30-second videos in which employees tout its planes' safety, hoping to reassure travelers about the 737 MAX that's been grounded worldwide since two crashes that killed 346 people.

On September 12, Boeing started putting out 30-second videos in which employees tout its planes' safety, hoping to reassure travelers about the 737 MAX that's been grounded worldwide since two crashes that killed 346 people. "Safety is at the core of our business. We have put hundreds of engineers to work to ensure that this airplane is 100 per cent ready," says Jennifer Henderson, Chief test pilot for the 737, in one of the clips. "When the 737 MAX returns to service I will absolutely put my family on this airplane," she stressed. But on a Facebook page for Boeing enthusiasts where the clip was posted, the response is negative. "Well, I think she could not say it would be unsafe," one member quipped, as Boeing faces the Herculean task of trying to regain the confidence of civil aviation authorities and the public, seven months after the crash of an Ethiopian Airlines MAX that killed 157 people. That came after the downing of a Lion Air MAX in Indonesia in October 2018, killing 189, with the plane's MCAS anti-stall system being blamed in both accidents. It's not known when the MAX will return to service. Boeing, which still has not submitted a modified version of the MCAS system to regulators, hopes it will be before the end of the year. "The 737 Max is, for now, an 'airplane non grata' -- a plane passengers do not want to fly," said Henry Harteveldt, president of Atmosphere Research Group in San Francisco. "Travelers aren't merely scared of the 737 MAX, they're terrified of it." Just 19 per cent of business travelers and 14 per cent of leisure travelers would willingly take the 737 MAX within six months of returning to the sky, according to an Atmosphere survey. Nearly half of the 2,000 respondents said they would pay more to avoid the MAX. Faced with this distrust, airlines are adapting. "We will be transparent -- and communicate in advance -- with our customers who are booked to fly on a MAX aircraft, will rebook those who do not want to fly on a MAX at no charge, and for some time will not swap aircraft to a MAX if a change of aircraft is required," said a spokesperson at United Airlines, which owns 14 MAX aircraft. American Airlines, which has 24 MAX planes, has said its company brass and employees will be the first to fly on the aircraft once it's cleared to return to the sky. The MAX's setbacks have cast a shadow over a century of history at Boeing, a highlight of which was the success of its 747 jumbo jet, nicknamed the "Queen of the skies." According to Harteveldt, half of the business passengers and 55 per cent of leisure passengers consider Boeing to be "irresponsible," "arrogant" and "unsafe." Boeing's management has addressed the trust issue. "We know that trust has been damaged over the last few months and we own that and we are working hard to re-earn that trust going forward," CEO Dennis Muilenburg said in August. The trust may have been tested again on Friday when it emerged that some potentially significant documents at Boeing were held back from investigators for months. Boeing says it has conducted 1,447 flight test hours as of October 13 with the modified MCAS, and Muilenburg personally took part in two tests. From late September to mid-October, the company also invited airline pilots to simulator training and information sessions in Miami, London, Istanbul, Shanghai and Singapore. "Boeing has no choice but to get it right this time, however uncomfortable that maybe for now," said Tracy Stewart, an editor at airfarewatchdog.com. If Boeing can take comfort in anything, it may be that most travelers do not look up which jet they will fly when booking tickets. Most commercial passengers are "worried about getting an aisle seat, and hoping the overhead bin will still have space for a carry-on," said John Dekker of online travel agency Surf City Travel. Some experts said one of the best ways for Boeing to regain credibility is to release a video explaining the changes to the 737 MAX to make it safer. They must "make sure they have informed the consumer that it won't happen again... PERIOD!" said Dekker.

Boeing wants it to fly, but travelers fear the 737 MAX

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-committee-seeks-to-interview-boeing-engineer-on-safety-of-737-max-253379">US</a> aviation regulators criticized <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/boeings-crisis-management-all-wrong-heres-what-a-company-needs-to-do-to-restore-the-publics-trust-205702">Boeing</a> on Friday for not immediately disclosing communications between two employees with "concerning" information on the investigation of the 737 MAX.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/faa-considered-grounding-some-boeing-737-max-planes-last-year-source-214840">Federal Aviation Administration</a> said Boeing discovered instant messages between the employees "some months ago" but did not disclose their existence until Thursday.&nbsp;

The FAA said it flagged its concerns to lawmakers on Capitol Hill and the Department of Transportation's inspector general.

The MAX has been grounded since mid-March following two crashes that killed 346 people.&nbsp;

The messages are between the employees and characterize communications with the FAA during the original certification of the MAX in 2016, the FAA said.

"Last night, I reviewed a concerning document that Boeing provided late yesterday to the Department of Transportation," FAA Administrator Steve Dickson said a letter to Boeing chief Dennis Muilenburg.

"I understand that Boeing discovered the document in its files months ago. I expect your explanation immediately regarding the content of this document and Boeing's delay in disclosing the document to its safety regulator."

Boeing did not have an immediate comment.

News of the messages come as the FAA has taken the lead among international regulators in overseeing the recertification for the MAX in a process that has dragged out much longer than originally expected.

Shares of Boeing tumbled 3.7 per cent to $355.35 in early afternoon trading.

US aviation regulators criticized Boeing on Friday for not immediately disclosing communications between two employees with "concerning" information on the investigation of the 737 MAX.

US aviation regulators criticized Boeing on Friday for not immediately disclosing communications between two employees with "concerning" information on the investigation of the 737 MAX. The Federal Aviation Administration said Boeing discovered instant messages between the employees "some months ago" but did not disclose their existence until Thursday. The FAA said it flagged its concerns to lawmakers on Capitol Hill and the Department of Transportation's inspector general. The MAX has been grounded since mid-March following two crashes that killed 346 people. The messages are between the employees and characterize communications with the FAA during the original certification of the MAX in 2016, the FAA said. "Last night, I reviewed a concerning document that Boeing provided late yesterday to the Department of Transportation," FAA Administrator Steve Dickson said a letter to Boeing chief Dennis Muilenburg. "I understand that Boeing discovered the document in its files months ago. I expect your explanation immediately regarding the content of this document and Boeing's delay in disclosing the document to its safety regulator." Boeing did not have an immediate comment. News of the messages come as the FAA has taken the lead among international regulators in overseeing the recertification for the MAX in a process that has dragged out much longer than originally expected. Shares of Boeing tumbled 3.7 per cent to $355.35 in early afternoon trading.

US regulators say Boeing withheld key 737 MAX documents

Boeing&nbsp;Co engineers working on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/aviation-watchdog-may-ask-boeing-to-set-up-737-max-simulators-in-india-250645">737&nbsp;MAX</a>&nbsp;passenger plane's flight-control system&nbsp;omitted&nbsp;safeguards&nbsp;included in an earlier version of the system&nbsp;used&nbsp;on a&nbsp;military&nbsp;tanker&nbsp;jet, The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday, citing people familiar with the matter.

The engineers who created the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS) flight-control system more than a decade ago for the&nbsp;military&nbsp;refuelling plane designed the system to rely on inputs from multiple sensors and with limited power to move aircraft's nose, the Journal said.

The newspaper cited one person familiar with the design saying this approach was taken in order to guard against the system acting erroneously or causing a pilot to lose control.

In contrast, the version of MCAS on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/phased-ungrounding-of-boeing-737-max-possible-ceo-muilenburg-249083">737&nbsp;MAX</a>&nbsp;passenger plane relied on input from just one of two sensors which measure the angle at which the plane's nose is flying, the newspaper said.

Boeing's expected software fix for its&nbsp;737&nbsp;MAX&nbsp;planes will make its MCAS more like the one&nbsp;used&nbsp;on the tanker&nbsp;jet, the Journal said.

Boeing&nbsp;did not immediately respond to Reuters' request for comment outside regular business hours.

Boeing&nbsp;has previously said that erroneous sensor data fed to the MCAS system was a common link in a chain of events leading to the fatal crashes of a Lion Air&nbsp;737&nbsp;MAX&nbsp;airliner in Indonesia on October 2018 and an Ethiopian Airlines&nbsp;737&nbsp;MAX&nbsp;in March 2019 which killed all 346 people aboard the two aircraft.

Boeing Co engineers working on the 737 MAX passenger plane's flight-control system omitted safeguards included in an earlier version of the system used on a military tanker jet, The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday, citing people familiar with the matter.

Boeing Co engineers working on the 737 MAX passenger plane's flight-control system omitted safeguards included in an earlier version of the system used on a military tanker jet, The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday, citing people familiar with the matter. The engineers who created the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS) flight-control system more than a decade ago for the military refuelling plane designed the system to rely on inputs from multiple sensors and with limited power to move aircraft's nose, the Journal said. The newspaper cited one person familiar with the design saying this approach was taken in order to guard against the system acting erroneously or causing a pilot to lose control. In contrast, the version of MCAS on the 737 MAX passenger plane relied on input from just one of two sensors which measure the angle at which the plane's nose is flying, the newspaper said. Boeing's expected software fix for its 737 MAX planes will make its MCAS more like the one used on the tanker jet, the Journal said. Boeing did not immediately respond to Reuters' request for comment outside regular business hours. Boeing has previously said that erroneous sensor data fed to the MCAS system was a common link in a chain of events leading to the fatal crashes of a Lion Air 737 MAX airliner in Indonesia on October 2018 and an Ethiopian Airlines 737 MAX in March 2019 which killed all 346 people aboard the two aircraft.

Boeing omitted safeguards on 737 MAX that were used on military jet: WSJ

Boeing's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-regulator-discrepancies-over-boeing-737-max-worry-international-air-transport-association-247510">737 MAX could be brought back </a>into service gradually by government regulators but is still on track to be cleared to fly again in 2019, the company's CEO said Wednesday.

"A phased ungrounding is a possibility," Boeing Chief Executive Dennis Muilenburg said at an investor conference in California.&nbsp;

The aircraft has been grounded since mid-March following two deadly crashes but could return to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/financial-hit-from-737-max-will-not-slow-appetite-for-services-deals-boeing-ceo-dennis-muilenburg-246131">air on a staggered schedule</a> in different countries.

Muilenburg said the company is still working through a number of questions with the US Federal Aviation &nbsp;Administration and other regulators but that "all of that work supports our timeline for an early fourth quarter return to service."

The company is addressing questions from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, which has expressed concerns about pilot training requirements and about a malfunction of the "angle of attack" which triggered an anti-stall system linked to the deadly crashes of Lion Air and Ethiopian Airlines planes.

"I wouldn't see those as divisive," Muilenburg said of the EASA queries. "I just think those are questions that we need to answer as part of the process."

Boeing has cut production of the 737 MAX from 52 to 42 per month due to the grounding and said in July it could cut production further or even temporarily halt output if the grounding drags out much longer.

Muilenburg said the company still viewed a temporary shutdown as a possibility under certain scenarios, but that "our bias right now is to maintain a stable rate at 42 a month."

Boeing's 737 MAX could be brought back into service gradually by government regulators but is still on track to be cleared to fly again in 2019, the company's CEO said Wednesday.

Boeing's 737 MAX could be brought back into service gradually by government regulators but is still on track to be cleared to fly again in 2019, the company's CEO said Wednesday. "A phased ungrounding is a possibility," Boeing Chief Executive Dennis Muilenburg said at an investor conference in California. The aircraft has been grounded since mid-March following two deadly crashes but could return to the air on a staggered schedule in different countries. Muilenburg said the company is still working through a number of questions with the US Federal Aviation Administration and other regulators but that "all of that work supports our timeline for an early fourth quarter return to service." The company is addressing questions from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, which has expressed concerns about pilot training requirements and about a malfunction of the "angle of attack" which triggered an anti-stall system linked to the deadly crashes of Lion Air and Ethiopian Airlines planes. "I wouldn't see those as divisive," Muilenburg said of the EASA queries. "I just think those are questions that we need to answer as part of the process." Boeing has cut production of the 737 MAX from 52 to 42 per month due to the grounding and said in July it could cut production further or even temporarily halt output if the grounding drags out much longer. Muilenburg said the company still viewed a temporary shutdown as a possibility under certain scenarios, but that "our bias right now is to maintain a stable rate at 42 a month."

Phased ungrounding of Boeing 737 MAX possible: CEO Muilenburg

The head of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) warned on Tuesday that any discrepancy among global regulators over reapproving <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/faa-considered-grounding-some-boeing-737-max-planes-last-year-source-214840">Boeing Co`s 737 MAX</a> for commercial flight could set a worrying precedent for future aircraft programs.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-regulator-cites-new-flaw-on-grounded-boeing-737-max-230998">737 MAX</a>, Boeing`s newest single-aisle aircraft, was grounded worldwide in March after two deadly crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia within five months. Boeing is updating flight control software at the centre of both crashes that must be approved by regulators before the planes can fly commercially again.

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has traditionally taken the lead on certifying Boeing aircraft, leaving other regulators globally to follow suit. That process has been supported by IATA, a trade association of the world`s airlines.

But international regulators have indicated they will pursue their own analysis of the 737 MAX and Boeing`s proposed updates after the FAA suffered a dent to its credibility following 737 MAX crashes.

"With the 737 MAX we are a bit worried ... because we don`t see the normal unanimity among international regulators that should be the case," Alexandre de Juniac, IATA director-general, told reporters ahead of a summit in Chicago.&nbsp;

"We see a discrepancy that`s detrimental to the industry," he added, urging regulators to make any changes to the single certification process "collectively."

In an emailed statement, the FAA said it has a "transparent and collaborative relationship" with other civil aviation authorities, but "each government will make its own decision to return the aircraft to service based on a thorough safety assessment."

In a presentation to the European Parliament transport committee on Tuesday, European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Executive Director Patrick Ky said the regional regulator has around 20 experts, including test pilots and engineers, examining the 737 MAX design to ensure there were no weaknesses in safety-critical areas.

Presentation slides posted on the European Parliament website showed that of the latest solutions presented by Boeing, EASA was satisfied with changes to the flight control computer architecture and believed improved crew procedures and training were a work in progress.&nbsp; 
However, it noted there was still no appropriate response to issues with the integrity of the angle of attack system.&nbsp;

In both of the 737 MAX crashes, erroneous data to one of the angles of attack sensors led to the activation of an automated system that repeatedly pushed down the plane`s nose.&nbsp;

US airlines are drawing up flight schedules without the 737 MAX into December or early next year, taking a financial hit while the jets remain grounded.

Boeing is targeting regulatory approval for the fixes and new pilot training in October, though the FAA reiterated on Tuesday it does not have a firm timeline to put the jets back in the air.

"Our first priority is safety, and we have set no timeframe for when the work will be completed," it said.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The head of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) warned on Tuesday that any discrepancy among global regulators over reapproving Boeing Co`s 737 MAX for commercial flight could set a worrying precedent for future aircraft programs.

The head of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) warned on Tuesday that any discrepancy among global regulators over reapproving Boeing Co`s 737 MAX for commercial flight could set a worrying precedent for future aircraft programs. The 737 MAX, Boeing`s newest single-aisle aircraft, was grounded worldwide in March after two deadly crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia within five months. Boeing is updating flight control software at the centre of both crashes that must be approved by regulators before the planes can fly commercially again. The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has traditionally taken the lead on certifying Boeing aircraft, leaving other regulators globally to follow suit. That process has been supported by IATA, a trade association of the world`s airlines. But international regulators have indicated they will pursue their own analysis of the 737 MAX and Boeing`s proposed updates after the FAA suffered a dent to its credibility following 737 MAX crashes. "With the 737 MAX we are a bit worried ... because we don`t see the normal unanimity among international regulators that should be the case," Alexandre de Juniac, IATA director-general, told reporters ahead of a summit in Chicago. "We see a discrepancy that`s detrimental to the industry," he added, urging regulators to make any changes to the single certification process "collectively." In an emailed statement, the FAA said it has a "transparent and collaborative relationship" with other civil aviation authorities, but "each government will make its own decision to return the aircraft to service based on a thorough safety assessment." In a presentation to the European Parliament transport committee on Tuesday, European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Executive Director Patrick Ky said the regional regulator has around 20 experts, including test pilots and engineers, examining the 737 MAX design to ensure there were no weaknesses in safety-critical areas. Presentation slides posted on the European Parliament website showed that of the latest solutions presented by Boeing, EASA was satisfied with changes to the flight control computer architecture and believed improved crew procedures and training were a work in progress. However, it noted there was still no appropriate response to issues with the integrity of the angle of attack system. In both of the 737 MAX crashes, erroneous data to one of the angles of attack sensors led to the activation of an automated system that repeatedly pushed down the plane`s nose. US airlines are drawing up flight schedules without the 737 MAX into December or early next year, taking a financial hit while the jets remain grounded. Boeing is targeting regulatory approval for the fixes and new pilot training in October, though the FAA reiterated on Tuesday it does not have a firm timeline to put the jets back in the air. "Our first priority is safety, and we have set no timeframe for when the work will be completed," it said.

Global regulator discrepancies over Boeing 737 MAX worry International Air Transport Association

Indonesian investigators will give their final report next month on the crash of a Lion Air Boeing 737 MAX jet that killed 189 people last October, the country's civil aviation authority said on Friday.

The 737 MAX, Boeing's best-selling jet, was grounded globally in March following another fatal crash of the jet operated by Ethiopian Airlines. The two crashes together killed 346 people.

A draft of the report by the transport safety agency (KNKT) will be sent next week to Boeing, Lion Air, the US Federal Aviation Administration and other parties to seek feedback, said Polana Pramesti, director general of civil aviation.

"After getting the responses, KNKT will release it in September," Pramesti told Reuters.

The report will include the facts and a chronology of the Lion Air crash, the causes of the incident and give recommendations, said KNKT deputy chairman Haryo Satmiko.

Boeing and the FAA provided data for the report, he said, which is expected to be released at the end of September.

Boeing has been working on an upgrade for a stall-prevention system known as MCAS since the Lion Air crash when pilots were believed to have lost a tug of war with software that repeatedly pushed the nose down.

Boeing said last month it would give $100 million over multiple years to governments and non-profit organizations to help families and communities affected by the crashes of its 737 MAX planes in&nbsp;Indonesia&nbsp;and Ethiopia.

The airline is the target of a US Department of Justice criminal investigation into the development of the 737 MAX, regulatory probes and more than 100 lawsuits by victims' families.

Indonesian investigators will give their final report next month on the crash of a Lion Air Boeing 737 MAX jet that killed 189 people last October, the country's civil aviation authority said on Friday.

Indonesian investigators will give their final report next month on the crash of a Lion Air Boeing 737 MAX jet that killed 189 people last October, the country's civil aviation authority said on Friday. The 737 MAX, Boeing's best-selling jet, was grounded globally in March following another fatal crash of the jet operated by Ethiopian Airlines. The two crashes together killed 346 people. A draft of the report by the transport safety agency (KNKT) will be sent next week to Boeing, Lion Air, the US Federal Aviation Administration and other parties to seek feedback, said Polana Pramesti, director general of civil aviation. "After getting the responses, KNKT will release it in September," Pramesti told Reuters. The report will include the facts and a chronology of the Lion Air crash, the causes of the incident and give recommendations, said KNKT deputy chairman Haryo Satmiko. Boeing and the FAA provided data for the report, he said, which is expected to be released at the end of September. Boeing has been working on an upgrade for a stall-prevention system known as MCAS since the Lion Air crash when pilots were believed to have lost a tug of war with software that repeatedly pushed the nose down. Boeing said last month it would give $100 million over multiple years to governments and non-profit organizations to help families and communities affected by the crashes of its 737 MAX planes in Indonesia and Ethiopia. The airline is the target of a US Department of Justice criminal investigation into the development of the 737 MAX, regulatory probes and more than 100 lawsuits by victims' families.

Indonesia to publish final report on Lion Air crash next month

Ryanair Holdings Plc on Monday warned fares would fall by 6 per cent&nbsp;in its key summer season this year, in part due to overcapacity in Germany and Brexit fears in the United Kingdom, but kept its profit target for the year.

Shares of Europe's largest low-cost carrier have almost halved in value in two years as the company grappled with overcapacity in Europe, Britain's plans to leave the European Union and, most recently, delays in delivery of the Boeing 737 MAX.

Ryanair earlier this month halved its growth targets for next year due to delays in deliveries of the 737 MAX. On Monday, it said it expected the first deliveries in January at the earliest.

The airline reported a profit after tax of 243 million euros for the three months to June 30, down from 309 million a year earlier. A poll of analysts published by Ryanair ahead of the results had forecast a profit of 232 million euros.

It retained its profit forecast for the year to March 31, 2020 of between 750 million euros and 950 million euros, compared to a forecast of 832 million euros in the analyst poll.

Ryanair said its fares in the three months to the end of June declined 6% from a year earlier and said it expected a similar fall for the remainder of the summer. Average fares for the year to end-March 2020 will be towards the lower end of its guidance range of -2% to +1%, it added.

Ryanair's shares closed on Friday at 10.02 euros, almost half their peak of 19.39 euros hit two years ago.

Ryanair is one of Boeing's biggest customers and was due to have 58 737 MAX jets in time for its 2020 summer season. But it now expects to receive just 30 by then in that period.

Ryanair's chief financial officer, Niall Sorohan, said the timing of plans by its pilots in the United Kingdom and Ireland to ballot for possible industrial action in August was "unusual", given concerns around the MAX and Brexit, but said the airline was open to talks.

Ryanair Holdings Plc on Monday warned fares would fall by 6 per cent in its key summer season this year, in part due to overcapacity in Germany and Brexit fears in the United Kingdom, but kept its profit target for the year.

Ryanair Holdings Plc on Monday warned fares would fall by 6 per cent in its key summer season this year, in part due to overcapacity in Germany and Brexit fears in the United Kingdom, but kept its profit target for the year. Shares of Europe's largest low-cost carrier have almost halved in value in two years as the company grappled with overcapacity in Europe, Britain's plans to leave the European Union and, most recently, delays in delivery of the Boeing 737 MAX. Ryanair earlier this month halved its growth targets for next year due to delays in deliveries of the 737 MAX. On Monday, it said it expected the first deliveries in January at the earliest. The airline reported a profit after tax of 243 million euros for the three months to June 30, down from 309 million a year earlier. A poll of analysts published by Ryanair ahead of the results had forecast a profit of 232 million euros. It retained its profit forecast for the year to March 31, 2020 of between 750 million euros and 950 million euros, compared to a forecast of 832 million euros in the analyst poll. Ryanair said its fares in the three months to the end of June declined 6% from a year earlier and said it expected a similar fall for the remainder of the summer. Average fares for the year to end-March 2020 will be towards the lower end of its guidance range of -2% to +1%, it added. Ryanair's shares closed on Friday at 10.02 euros, almost half their peak of 19.39 euros hit two years ago. Ryanair is one of Boeing's biggest customers and was due to have 58 737 MAX jets in time for its 2020 summer season. But it now expects to receive just 30 by then in that period. Ryanair's chief financial officer, Niall Sorohan, said the timing of plans by its pilots in the United Kingdom and Ireland to ballot for possible industrial action in August was "unusual", given concerns around the MAX and Brexit, but said the airline was open to talks.

Ryanair expects average fares to fall 6% in key summer season

American Airlines Group Inc said on Sunday it is extending for a fourth time cancellations of about 115 daily flights into early November due to the ongoing grounding of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeings-737-max-aircraft-what-comes-next-203786">Boeing Co 737 MAX jets</a>.

The airline's decision was expected after the Federal Aviation Administration, which must reapprove the jets for flight following two fatal crashes, last month uncovered a new flaw that Boeing estimates will take until at least September to fix.

"American Airlines remains confident that impending software updates to the Boeing 737 MAX, along with the new training elements Boeing is developing in coordination with our union partners, will lead to recertification of the aircraft this year," the airline said in a statement on Sunday.

American, the world's largest airline and the second largest MAX operator in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-shares-muted-as-prospect-of-sharp-united-states-rate-cut-fades-234064">United States</a>, most recently had planned to keep the MAX, which it used on most flights between New York's LaGuardia airport and Miami, off its schedule through Sept. 3. It has been substituting other aircraft for its busiest flights while canceling others and temporarily suspending direct flights between Oakland, California, and Dallas-Fort Worth.

Some analysts have said they do not expect the MAX jets to fly again before the end of the year.

American, with 24 737 MAX aircraft and dozens more on order, is scheduling without the jets through Nov. 2.

Among other US MAX carriers, Southwest Airlines Co has removed the aircraft from its scheduling through October 1, and United Airlines Holdings until November 3. Southwest is the world's largest MAX operator.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ryanair-holdings-sees-risk-to-2020-growth-if-737-max-grounded-beyond-november-234886">737 MAX</a>, which had been Boeing's fastest-selling aircraft thanks to its fuel-efficient engines and longer ranger, was grounded worldwide in March after an Ethiopian Airlines plane plunged to the ground soon after take-off, five months after a similar Lion Air fatal crash off the coast of Indonesia.

Boeing hopes a software upgrade and new pilot training will add layers of protection to prevent erroneous data from triggering a system called MCAS, which was activated in both the planes before they crashed.

American, which is also grappling with cancellations related to a labor dispute with its mechanics, is due to report second-quarter results later this month, with an expected rise in unit revenues as capacity constraints mean its planes are flying fuller.

However, the airline cut its annual profit forecast in April, blaming an estimated $350 million hit from the MAX groundings.

American's chief executive, Doug Parker, has been among the most vocal supporters of the MAX aircraft, saying on June 12 that it was "highly likely" flights would resume by mid-August.

American Airlines Group Inc said on Sunday it is extending for a fourth time cancellations of about 115 daily flights into early November due to the ongoing grounding of the Boeing Co 737 MAX jets.

American Airlines Group Inc said on Sunday it is extending for a fourth time cancellations of about 115 daily flights into early November due to the ongoing grounding of the Boeing Co 737 MAX jets. The airline's decision was expected after the Federal Aviation Administration, which must reapprove the jets for flight following two fatal crashes, last month uncovered a new flaw that Boeing estimates will take until at least September to fix. "American Airlines remains confident that impending software updates to the Boeing 737 MAX, along with the new training elements Boeing is developing in coordination with our union partners, will lead to recertification of the aircraft this year," the airline said in a statement on Sunday. American, the world's largest airline and the second largest MAX operator in the United States, most recently had planned to keep the MAX, which it used on most flights between New York's LaGuardia airport and Miami, off its schedule through Sept. 3. It has been substituting other aircraft for its busiest flights while canceling others and temporarily suspending direct flights between Oakland, California, and Dallas-Fort Worth. Some analysts have said they do not expect the MAX jets to fly again before the end of the year. American, with 24 737 MAX aircraft and dozens more on order, is scheduling without the jets through Nov. 2. Among other US MAX carriers, Southwest Airlines Co has removed the aircraft from its scheduling through October 1, and United Airlines Holdings until November 3. Southwest is the world's largest MAX operator. The 737 MAX, which had been Boeing's fastest-selling aircraft thanks to its fuel-efficient engines and longer ranger, was grounded worldwide in March after an Ethiopian Airlines plane plunged to the ground soon after take-off, five months after a similar Lion Air fatal crash off the coast of Indonesia. Boeing hopes a software upgrade and new pilot training will add layers of protection to prevent erroneous data from triggering a system called MCAS, which was activated in both the planes before they crashed. American, which is also grappling with cancellations related to a labor dispute with its mechanics, is due to report second-quarter results later this month, with an expected rise in unit revenues as capacity constraints mean its planes are flying fuller. However, the airline cut its annual profit forecast in April, blaming an estimated $350 million hit from the MAX groundings. American's chief executive, Doug Parker, has been among the most vocal supporters of the MAX aircraft, saying on June 12 that it was "highly likely" flights would resume by mid-August.

American Airlines extends Boeing 737 MAX cancellations for fourth time

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-to-seek-rollback-of-indian-tariffs-during-trade-talk-report-235194">US</a> Attorney General William Barr has recused himself from the Justice Department's investigation into Boeing Co after two <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ryanair-holdings-sees-risk-to-2020-growth-if-737-max-grounded-beyond-november-234886">737 MAX</a> aeroplane crashes killed 346 people, a spokeswoman for Barr said Thursday.

Bloomberg News reported on Thursday that Barr has recused himself because his former law firm is representing Boeing.&nbsp;

Reuters and other outlets reported in March that federal prosecutors aided by the FBI were scrutinizing the development of the 737 MAX jetliners. Boeing did not immediately comment.

US Attorney General William Barr has recused himself from the Justice Department's investigation into Boeing Co after two 737 MAX aeroplane crashes killed 346 people, a spokeswoman for Barr said Thursday.

US Attorney General William Barr has recused himself from the Justice Department's investigation into Boeing Co after two 737 MAX aeroplane crashes killed 346 people, a spokeswoman for Barr said Thursday. Bloomberg News reported on Thursday that Barr has recused himself because his former law firm is representing Boeing. Reuters and other outlets reported in March that federal prosecutors aided by the FBI were scrutinizing the development of the 737 MAX jetliners. Boeing did not immediately comment.

United States Attorney General William Barr has recused himself from Boeing 737 MAX probe: Justice Department

The US Federal Aviation Administration has identified a new risk that Boeing Co must address on its 737 MAX before the grounded jet can return to service, the agency said on Wednesday.

The risk was discovered during a simulator test last week and it is not yet clear if the issue can be addressed with a software upgrade or will require a more complex hardware fix, sources with knowledge of the matter told Reuters.

The FAA did not elaborate on the latest setback for Boeing, which has been working to get its best-selling airplane back in the air following a worldwide grounding in March in the wake of two deadly crashes within five months.

The new issue means Boeing will not conduct a certification test flight until July 8 in a best-case scenario, the sources said, but one source cautioned it could face further delays beyond that. The FAA will spend at least two to three weeks reviewing the results before deciding whether to return the plane to service, the people said.

Last month, FAA representatives told members of the aviation industry that approval of the 737 MAX jets could happen as early as late June.

The world's largest planemaker has been working on the upgrade for a stall-prevention system known as MCAS since a Lion Air crash in Indonesia in October, when pilots were believed to have lost a tug of war with software that repeatedly pushed the nose down.

A second deadly crash in March in Ethiopia also involved MCAS. The two accidents killed a total of 346 people.

"On the most recent issue, the FAA's process is designed to discover and highlight potential risks. The FAA recently found a potential risk that Boeing must mitigate," the FAA said in the statement emailed to Reuters. "The FAA will lift the aircraft’s prohibition order when we deem it is safe to do so."

Boeing said in a securities filing late on Wednesday that the FAA has asked it to address through software changes a specific flight condition not covered in the company's already-unveiled software changes.

The US&nbsp;planemaker also said it agreed with the FAA's decision and request, and was working on a fix to address the problem.

"Boeing will not offer the 737 MAX for certification by the FAA until we have satisfied all requirements for certification of the MAX and its safe return to service," Boeing wrote in the filing.

Intense scrutiny

Boeing's aircraft are being subjected to intense scrutiny and testing designed to catch flaws even after a years-long certification process.

Two people briefed on the matter told Reuters that an FAA test pilot during a simulator test last week was running scenarios seeking to intentionally activate the MCAS stall-prevention system. During one activation it took an extended period to recover the stabilizer trim system that is used to control the aircraft, the people said.

It was not clear if the situation that resulted in an uncommanded dive can be addressed with a software update or if it is a microprocessor issue that will require a hardware replacement.

In a separate statement, Boeing said addressing the new problem would remove a potential source of uncommanded movement by the plane's stabilizer.

A hardware fix could add new delays to the plane's return to service.

The FAA also said on Wednesday that it continues "to evaluate Boeing's software modification to the MCAS and we are still developing necessary training requirements. We also are responding to recommendations received from the Technical Advisory Board. The TAB is an independent review panel we have asked to review our work regarding 737 Max return to service."

American Airlines Group Inc and Southwest Airlines Co earlier cancelled flights through early September as a result of the grounding. On Wednesday, United Airlines said it also was removing MAX flights from its schedule through Sept. 3.

The US Federal Aviation Administration has identified a new risk that Boeing Co must address on its 737 MAX before the grounded jet can return to service, the agency said on Wednesday.

The US Federal Aviation Administration has identified a new risk that Boeing Co must address on its 737 MAX before the grounded jet can return to service, the agency said on Wednesday. The risk was discovered during a simulator test last week and it is not yet clear if the issue can be addressed with a software upgrade or will require a more complex hardware fix, sources with knowledge of the matter told Reuters. The FAA did not elaborate on the latest setback for Boeing, which has been working to get its best-selling airplane back in the air following a worldwide grounding in March in the wake of two deadly crashes within five months. The new issue means Boeing will not conduct a certification test flight until July 8 in a best-case scenario, the sources said, but one source cautioned it could face further delays beyond that. The FAA will spend at least two to three weeks reviewing the results before deciding whether to return the plane to service, the people said. Last month, FAA representatives told members of the aviation industry that approval of the 737 MAX jets could happen as early as late June. The world's largest planemaker has been working on the upgrade for a stall-prevention system known as MCAS since a Lion Air crash in Indonesia in October, when pilots were believed to have lost a tug of war with software that repeatedly pushed the nose down. A second deadly crash in March in Ethiopia also involved MCAS. The two accidents killed a total of 346 people. "On the most recent issue, the FAA's process is designed to discover and highlight potential risks. The FAA recently found a potential risk that Boeing must mitigate," the FAA said in the statement emailed to Reuters. "The FAA will lift the aircraft’s prohibition order when we deem it is safe to do so." Boeing said in a securities filing late on Wednesday that the FAA has asked it to address through software changes a specific flight condition not covered in the company's already-unveiled software changes. The US planemaker also said it agreed with the FAA's decision and request, and was working on a fix to address the problem. "Boeing will not offer the 737 MAX for certification by the FAA until we have satisfied all requirements for certification of the MAX and its safe return to service," Boeing wrote in the filing. Intense scrutiny Boeing's aircraft are being subjected to intense scrutiny and testing designed to catch flaws even after a years-long certification process. Two people briefed on the matter told Reuters that an FAA test pilot during a simulator test last week was running scenarios seeking to intentionally activate the MCAS stall-prevention system. During one activation it took an extended period to recover the stabilizer trim system that is used to control the aircraft, the people said. It was not clear if the situation that resulted in an uncommanded dive can be addressed with a software update or if it is a microprocessor issue that will require a hardware replacement. In a separate statement, Boeing said addressing the new problem would remove a potential source of uncommanded movement by the plane's stabilizer. A hardware fix could add new delays to the plane's return to service. The FAA also said on Wednesday that it continues "to evaluate Boeing's software modification to the MCAS and we are still developing necessary training requirements. We also are responding to recommendations received from the Technical Advisory Board. The TAB is an independent review panel we have asked to review our work regarding 737 Max return to service." American Airlines Group Inc and Southwest Airlines Co earlier cancelled flights through early September as a result of the grounding. On Wednesday, United Airlines said it also was removing MAX flights from its schedule through Sept. 3.

US regulator cites new flaw on grounded Boeing 737 MAX

Boeing’s grounded 737 MAX jet received a boost on Tuesday after British Airways-owner IAG (International Airlines Group) signed a letter of intent to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/virgin-australia-delays-boeing-737-max-order-over-safety-concerns-214663">order</a> 200 of the planes and said it was confident that it would return to service in the coming months.

Boeing said the deal had a value of more than $24 billion at list prices.

IAG said the mix of 737-8 and 737-10 aircraft, to be delivered between 2023 and 2027, would be powered by CFM Leap engines and used across a number of its airlines including British Airways, Vueling and Level.

The MAX 737 was grounded in March following two deadly crashes, and Boeing has been working on a software fix to get the jet back flying by the end of the year.

IAG Chief Executive Willie Walsh said he had experienced Boeing’s MCAS (Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System) anti-stall software in person, adding it was "very helpful to see it in operation" and to "understand the changes" that Boeing was proposing.

"It gave me confidence both in terms of the aircraft and the changes that Boeing introduced," he said at the announcement of the deal at the Paris Airshow.

"I am confident in Boeing," Willie Walsh said.

Boeing shares rose 2 per cent on the announcement. The company is working towards a certification flight with regulators soon.

Boeing commercial airplanes boss Kevin McAllister said the decision of when the MAX flies again was in the hands of the regulators.

Boeing’s grounded 737 MAX jet received a boost on Tuesday after British Airways-owner IAG (International Airlines Group) signed a letter of intent to order 200 of the planes and said it was confident that it would return to service in the coming months.

Boeing’s grounded 737 MAX jet received a boost on Tuesday after British Airways-owner IAG (International Airlines Group) signed a letter of intent to order 200 of the planes and said it was confident that it would return to service in the coming months. Boeing said the deal had a value of more than $24 billion at list prices. IAG said the mix of 737-8 and 737-10 aircraft, to be delivered between 2023 and 2027, would be powered by CFM Leap engines and used across a number of its airlines including British Airways, Vueling and Level. The MAX 737 was grounded in March following two deadly crashes, and Boeing has been working on a software fix to get the jet back flying by the end of the year. IAG Chief Executive Willie Walsh said he had experienced Boeing’s MCAS (Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System) anti-stall software in person, adding it was "very helpful to see it in operation" and to "understand the changes" that Boeing was proposing. "It gave me confidence both in terms of the aircraft and the changes that Boeing introduced," he said at the announcement of the deal at the Paris Airshow. "I am confident in Boeing," Willie Walsh said. Boeing shares rose 2 per cent on the announcement. The company is working towards a certification flight with regulators soon. Boeing commercial airplanes boss Kevin McAllister said the decision of when the MAX flies again was in the hands of the regulators.

Boeing's troubled 737 MAX gets huge vote of confidence from IAG, signs first deal since crash

A US politician who blamed pilot error for contributing to the deadly crash of a Boeing 737 Max flown by Ethiopian Airlines was "seriously misinformed", the carrier's&nbsp;boss has said.

Republican Sam Graves told a House of Representatives hearing last month that "facts" in investigations after crashes in both Ethiopia and Indonesia "reveal pilot error as a factor in these tragically fatal accidents".&nbsp;

He also said "pilots trained in the United States would have successfully handled the situation" in both incidents.

But in a BBC interview aired Monday, Ethiopian Airlines chief executive Tewolde GebreMariam said criticisms of his crew's actions were "seriously misinformed", and that Graves did not "have the facts in his hands".

"People who've made those comments should ask themselves, 'Why on earth have they grounded 380 airplanes over the world?' The facts speak for themselves," he said.&nbsp;

The 737 MAX 8 is currently grounded worldwide after the March crash of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302, which killed all 157 people onboard and drew scrutiny to the new Boeing model's anti-stall system.

Pilots were already worried about the safety of the model following the October 2018 crash in Indonesia of a Lion Air 737 MAX 8 that killed 189 people.

Boeing is working to submit a modified version of the aircraft's software and hopes to get the approval of the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and its counterparts throughout the world.

But aviation regulators meeting last month were unable to determine when the popular jet might again be allowed to fly, causing costly headaches for airlines worldwide.

Revelations of close ties between Boeing and the FAA in testing the MAX led to a crisis of confidence among the public and airline pilots, as well as some of the other agencies that regulate civil aviation.

"We have work to do to win and regain the trust of the public," Boeing CEO Dennis Muilenburg conceded at the Paris Air Show on Sunday.

A US politician who blamed pilot error for contributing to the deadly crash of a Boeing 737 Max flown by Ethiopian Airlines was "seriously misinformed", the carrier's boss has said.

A US politician who blamed pilot error for contributing to the deadly crash of a Boeing 737 Max flown by Ethiopian Airlines was "seriously misinformed", the carrier's boss has said. Republican Sam Graves told a House of Representatives hearing last month that "facts" in investigations after crashes in both Ethiopia and Indonesia "reveal pilot error as a factor in these tragically fatal accidents". He also said "pilots trained in the United States would have successfully handled the situation" in both incidents. But in a BBC interview aired Monday, Ethiopian Airlines chief executive Tewolde GebreMariam said criticisms of his crew's actions were "seriously misinformed", and that Graves did not "have the facts in his hands". "People who've made those comments should ask themselves, 'Why on earth have they grounded 380 airplanes over the world?' The facts speak for themselves," he said. The 737 MAX 8 is currently grounded worldwide after the March crash of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302, which killed all 157 people onboard and drew scrutiny to the new Boeing model's anti-stall system. Pilots were already worried about the safety of the model following the October 2018 crash in Indonesia of a Lion Air 737 MAX 8 that killed 189 people. Boeing is working to submit a modified version of the aircraft's software and hopes to get the approval of the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and its counterparts throughout the world. But aviation regulators meeting last month were unable to determine when the popular jet might again be allowed to fly, causing costly headaches for airlines worldwide. Revelations of close ties between Boeing and the FAA in testing the MAX led to a crisis of confidence among the public and airline pilots, as well as some of the other agencies that regulate civil aviation. "We have work to do to win and regain the trust of the public," Boeing CEO Dennis Muilenburg conceded at the Paris Air Show on Sunday.

Boeing 737 Max: Ethiopian Airlines chief rejects 'pilot error' claim in US

Boeing's chairman and CEO Dennis Muilenburg said on Monday that the company hasn't received any orders for its 737 Max planes since the aircraft was grounded following two deadly crashes. #Boeing737MaxCrash #737Max #BoeingCEO

Boeing has not received any 737 Max orders since grounding - CEO

United Airlines said on Friday it is extending by one month its cancellations of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-acknowledges-flaw-in-737-max-simulator-software-220226">Boeing Co 737 MAX flights</a>, through August&nbsp;3, as the jetliner remains grounded following two fatal crashes.

United, which operates 14 737 MAX jets, said the decision would lead to about 40 or 45 daily cancelled flights.

The Chicago-based carrier joins rivals Southwest Airlines Co and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-airlines-cancels-115-flights-daily-over-boeing-737-max-until-august-210442">American Airlines</a> Group Inc which had already suspended <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/probe-begins-after-boeing-737-slides-off-runway-into-florida-river-216035">737 MAX flights</a> into August as global carriers await regulatory approval for the aircraft to fly again.

The worldwide grounding in March of Boeing's fast-selling aircraft followed a crash in Indonesia and another in Ethiopia that killed a combined 346 people.

Since the grounding, US airlines have had to readjust schedules and come up with solutions in order to meet demand during the busy summer travel season.

Reuters reported on Thursday that the Federal Aviation Administration expects to approve the 737 MAX jet to return to service as soon as late June, according to people familiar with the matter.

Even so, FAA acting administrator Dan Elwell told reporters on Thursday after a meeting with international air regulators in Texas that he would not assign a specific date for the US approval.

Once regulators approve the 737 MAX jets for flight, each aircraft will likely require between 100 and 150 hours of preparation before flying, in addition to pilot training, Reuters also reported on Thursday.

United, whose parent company is United Continental Holdings Inc, was due to take delivery of 16 more MAX jets this year before the grounding.

"We'll continue to monitor the regulatory process and nimbly make the necessary adjustments to our operation and our schedule to benefit our customers who are travelling this summer," a United spokesman said in a statement on Friday.

Separately, United said on Friday it had launched a management overhaul at Colombia's cash-strapped Avianca Holdings, with which it is pursuing a three-way tie-up with Panama's Copa.

The move, which removes Avianca's top shareholder, German Efromovich, from control and hands it to a third party, follows a default by his holding company on a $456 million loan from United.

United has been seeking to expand in Latin America, which is considered ripe for air travel growth.

Shares of United were little changed on Friday afternoon at $80.95. 
&nbsp;

United Airlines said on Friday it is extending by one month its cancellations of Boeing Co 737 MAX flights, through August 3, as the jetliner remains grounded following two fatal crashes.

United Airlines said on Friday it is extending by one month its cancellations of Boeing Co 737 MAX flights, through August 3, as the jetliner remains grounded following two fatal crashes. United, which operates 14 737 MAX jets, said the decision would lead to about 40 or 45 daily cancelled flights. The Chicago-based carrier joins rivals Southwest Airlines Co and American Airlines Group Inc which had already suspended 737 MAX flights into August as global carriers await regulatory approval for the aircraft to fly again. The worldwide grounding in March of Boeing's fast-selling aircraft followed a crash in Indonesia and another in Ethiopia that killed a combined 346 people. Since the grounding, US airlines have had to readjust schedules and come up with solutions in order to meet demand during the busy summer travel season. Reuters reported on Thursday that the Federal Aviation Administration expects to approve the 737 MAX jet to return to service as soon as late June, according to people familiar with the matter. Even so, FAA acting administrator Dan Elwell told reporters on Thursday after a meeting with international air regulators in Texas that he would not assign a specific date for the US approval. Once regulators approve the 737 MAX jets for flight, each aircraft will likely require between 100 and 150 hours of preparation before flying, in addition to pilot training, Reuters also reported on Thursday. United, whose parent company is United Continental Holdings Inc, was due to take delivery of 16 more MAX jets this year before the grounding. "We'll continue to monitor the regulatory process and nimbly make the necessary adjustments to our operation and our schedule to benefit our customers who are travelling this summer," a United spokesman said in a statement on Friday. Separately, United said on Friday it had launched a management overhaul at Colombia's cash-strapped Avianca Holdings, with which it is pursuing a three-way tie-up with Panama's Copa. The move, which removes Avianca's top shareholder, German Efromovich, from control and hands it to a third party, follows a default by his holding company on a $456 million loan from United. United has been seeking to expand in Latin America, which is considered ripe for air travel growth. Shares of United were little changed on Friday afternoon at $80.95.

United Airlines extends cancellations of Boeing 737 MAX flights into August

A French woman whose husband was killed in the March crash of a Boeing 737 MAX airliner in Ethiopia has filed a US lawsuit against the planemaker seeking at least $276 million in damages, her lawyer said on Tuesday.

The crash of Ethiopian Airlines flight 302 near the capital Addis Ababa killed all 157 passengers and crew aboard.

The complaint alleges Boeing failed to inform pilots properly about the risks posed by software meant to prevent the 737 MAX from stalling which repeatedly lowered the plane's nose due to a faulty sensor data, according to US attorney Nomaan Husain.

"Once again corporate greed has placed profits over safety with tragic consequences for the public," Husain said in a written statement. "We have learned that Boeing relied on a single sensor that had been previously flagged in over 200 incident reports submitted to the FAA (US&nbsp;Federal Aviation Administration)."

Husain told a Paris news conference he was seeking a minimum of $276 million in damages for client Nadege Dubois-Seex.

Boeing said last week it had completed an update to the 737 MAX's MCAS software and was in the process of submitting a plan for related pilot training to the FAA.

Airlines around the world grounded the 737 MAX after the Ethiopian Airlines crash, the second for the Boeing model in five months.

A Lion Air 737 MAX plunged into the ocean off Indonesia in similar circumstances last October killing all 189 aboard.

Dozens of families have sued Boeing over the Lion Air crash, and several lawsuits have been lodged over the Ethiopian crash.

It is unclear when the 737 MAX aircraft will receive FAA approval to return to service. Safety regulators in other countries have said they plan to independently assess Boeing's fixes before giving their approval.

(Reporting by Emilie Dewarde; editing by Richard Lough and Jason Neely)

A French woman whose husband was killed in the March crash of a Boeing 737 MAX airliner in Ethiopia has filed a US lawsuit against the planemaker seeking at least $276 million in damages, her lawyer said on Tuesday.

A French woman whose husband was killed in the March crash of a Boeing 737 MAX airliner in Ethiopia has filed a US lawsuit against the planemaker seeking at least $276 million in damages, her lawyer said on Tuesday. The crash of Ethiopian Airlines flight 302 near the capital Addis Ababa killed all 157 passengers and crew aboard. The complaint alleges Boeing failed to inform pilots properly about the risks posed by software meant to prevent the 737 MAX from stalling which repeatedly lowered the plane's nose due to a faulty sensor data, according to US attorney Nomaan Husain. "Once again corporate greed has placed profits over safety with tragic consequences for the public," Husain said in a written statement. "We have learned that Boeing relied on a single sensor that had been previously flagged in over 200 incident reports submitted to the FAA (US Federal Aviation Administration)." Husain told a Paris news conference he was seeking a minimum of $276 million in damages for client Nadege Dubois-Seex. Boeing said last week it had completed an update to the 737 MAX's MCAS software and was in the process of submitting a plan for related pilot training to the FAA. Airlines around the world grounded the 737 MAX after the Ethiopian Airlines crash, the second for the Boeing model in five months. A Lion Air 737 MAX plunged into the ocean off Indonesia in similar circumstances last October killing all 189 aboard. Dozens of families have sued Boeing over the Lion Air crash, and several lawsuits have been lodged over the Ethiopian crash. It is unclear when the 737 MAX aircraft will receive FAA approval to return to service. Safety regulators in other countries have said they plan to independently assess Boeing's fixes before giving their approval. (Reporting by Emilie Dewarde; editing by Richard Lough and Jason Neely)

French woman sues Boeing seeking at least $276 million over Ethiopian crash

Boeing acknowledged Saturday it had to correct flaws in its 737 MAX flight simulator software used to train pilots, after two deadly crashes involving the aircraft that killed 346 people.

"Boeing has made corrections to the 737 MAX simulator software and has provided additional information to device operators to ensure that the simulator experience is representative across different flight conditions," it said in a statement.

The company did not indicate when it first became aware of the problem, and whether it informed regulators.

Its statement marked the first time Boeing acknowledged there was a design flaw in software linked to the 737 MAX, whose MCAS anti-stall software has been blamed in large part for the Ethiopian Airlines tragedy.

According to Boeing, the flight simulator software was incapable of reproducing certain flight conditions similar to those at the time of the Ethiopian Airlines crash in March or the Lion Air crash in October.

The company said the latest "changes will improve the simulation of force loads on the manual trim wheel," a rarely used manual wheel to control the plane's angle.&nbsp;

"Boeing is working closely with the device manufacturers and regulators on these changes and improvements, and to ensure that customer training is not disrupted," it added.

Southwest Airlines, a major 737 MAX customer with 34 of the aircraft in its fleet, told AFP it expected to receive the first simulator "late this year."

American Airlines, which has 24 of the aircraft, said it had ordered a 737 MAX simulator that will be delivered and put into operation in December.

"As a result of the continuing investigation into both aircraft accidents, we are looking at the potential for additional training opportunities in coordination with the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) and Allied Pilots Association," it added.

Certification process

The planes have been grounded around the world, awaiting approval from US and international regulators before they can return to service.

Only Air Canada has a MAX simulator, industry sources told AFP.

Currently, there is only one flight simulator specific to the 737 MAX in the United States, and it is owned by Boeing, according to FAA documentation.&nbsp;

US airlines train their pilots flying the MAX on a simulator built for the 737 NG, the version preceding the 737 MAX in the 737 aircraft family.

Southwest said that's because during the certification process for the MAX, Boeing stressed that there were only minor differences with the NG and simple computer and online training could accommodate for the differences.

The FAA, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency and Canadian regulators had approved those recommendations, Boeing stresses.

However, the 737 NG lacks an MCAS, specially designed for the MAX in order to correct an aerodynamic anomaly due to its heavier motor and to prevent the plane from stalling.

Pilot training will likely be at the heart of the meeting of international regulators in Forth Worth, Texas on Thursday when the FAA will try convince its counterparts of the robustness of its certification process for the modified 737 MAX.

The American regulator has maintained that training pilots on a simulator is not essential, a position with which pilots and its Canadian counterpart disagree.

Boeing said Thursday that it completed its software update on the 737 MAX.

The proposed fix, which addresses a problem with a flight handling system thought to be a factor in both crashes, must now win approval from US and international regulators before the planes can return to service.

US airlines have targeted August as the date they expect to resume flying on the 737 MAX.

Boeing acknowledged Saturday it had to correct flaws in its 737 MAX flight simulator software used to train pilots, after two deadly crashes involving the aircraft that killed 346 people.

Boeing acknowledged Saturday it had to correct flaws in its 737 MAX flight simulator software used to train pilots, after two deadly crashes involving the aircraft that killed 346 people. "Boeing has made corrections to the 737 MAX simulator software and has provided additional information to device operators to ensure that the simulator experience is representative across different flight conditions," it said in a statement. The company did not indicate when it first became aware of the problem, and whether it informed regulators. Its statement marked the first time Boeing acknowledged there was a design flaw in software linked to the 737 MAX, whose MCAS anti-stall software has been blamed in large part for the Ethiopian Airlines tragedy. According to Boeing, the flight simulator software was incapable of reproducing certain flight conditions similar to those at the time of the Ethiopian Airlines crash in March or the Lion Air crash in October. The company said the latest "changes will improve the simulation of force loads on the manual trim wheel," a rarely used manual wheel to control the plane's angle. "Boeing is working closely with the device manufacturers and regulators on these changes and improvements, and to ensure that customer training is not disrupted," it added. Southwest Airlines, a major 737 MAX customer with 34 of the aircraft in its fleet, told AFP it expected to receive the first simulator "late this year." American Airlines, which has 24 of the aircraft, said it had ordered a 737 MAX simulator that will be delivered and put into operation in December. "As a result of the continuing investigation into both aircraft accidents, we are looking at the potential for additional training opportunities in coordination with the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) and Allied Pilots Association," it added. Certification process The planes have been grounded around the world, awaiting approval from US and international regulators before they can return to service. Only Air Canada has a MAX simulator, industry sources told AFP. Currently, there is only one flight simulator specific to the 737 MAX in the United States, and it is owned by Boeing, according to FAA documentation. US airlines train their pilots flying the MAX on a simulator built for the 737 NG, the version preceding the 737 MAX in the 737 aircraft family. Southwest said that's because during the certification process for the MAX, Boeing stressed that there were only minor differences with the NG and simple computer and online training could accommodate for the differences. The FAA, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency and Canadian regulators had approved those recommendations, Boeing stresses. However, the 737 NG lacks an MCAS, specially designed for the MAX in order to correct an aerodynamic anomaly due to its heavier motor and to prevent the plane from stalling. Pilot training will likely be at the heart of the meeting of international regulators in Forth Worth, Texas on Thursday when the FAA will try convince its counterparts of the robustness of its certification process for the modified 737 MAX. The American regulator has maintained that training pilots on a simulator is not essential, a position with which pilots and its Canadian counterpart disagree. Boeing said Thursday that it completed its software update on the 737 MAX. The proposed fix, which addresses a problem with a flight handling system thought to be a factor in both crashes, must now win approval from US and international regulators before the planes can return to service. US airlines have targeted August as the date they expect to resume flying on the 737 MAX.

Boeing acknowledges flaw in 737 MAX simulator software

After the two deadly crashes that resulted in the grounding of the aircraft, Boeing has now said their aircrafts are ready with a software update. Watch this video to know more.

Boeing: Software fix for 737 Max is ready

Boeing engineers identified a fault with a pilot warning system on its 737 MAX aircraft in 2017, a year before the deadly Lion Air crash, the company said Sunday.

Boeing said that management was unaware of the issue until the crash in Indonesia, which killed 189 people, and the planes were not grounded until after another of the type operated by Ethiopian Airlines went down several months later, leaving a further 157 people dead.

According to Boeing, a supposedly standard piece of equipment that tells the pilot about disagreements between the angle of attack (AOA) indicators -- which measure the plane's angle vis-a-vis oncoming air to warn of impending stalls -- did not, in fact, activate unless an additional optional indicator was purchased by airlines.

That left airlines that did not buy the optional indicator -- including both Lion Air and Ethiopian Airlines -- without the safety feature.

The faulty angle of attack indicator information may have played a role in both of the deadly crashes, causing the 737 MAX anti-stall system to unnecessarily activate and push the nose down toward the ground even as pilots fought to maintain altitude.

"In 2017, within several months after beginning 737 MAX deliveries, engineers at Boeing identified that the 737 MAX display system software did not correctly meet the AOA Disagree alert requirements," the aircraft manufacturer said in a statement.

"The software delivered to Boeing linked the AOA Disagree alert to the AOA indicator, which is an optional feature," it said. "Accordingly, the software activated the AOA Disagree alert only if an airline opted for the AOA indicator."

A Boeing review "determined that the absence of the AOA Disagree alert did not adversely impact aeroplane safety or operation," concluding that "the existing functionality was acceptable until the alert and the indicator could be delinked in the next planned display system software update," Boeing said.

"Senior company leadership was not involved in the review and first became aware of this issue in the aftermath of the Lion Air accident."

Boeing's entire 737 MAX fleet has been grounded since shortly after the Ethiopian Airlines crash in March, while investigators study the incidents and engineers work on solutions.

Boeing engineers identified a fault with a pilot warning system on its 737 MAX aircraft in 2017, a year before the deadly Lion Air crash, the company said Sunday.

Boeing engineers identified a fault with a pilot warning system on its 737 MAX aircraft in 2017, a year before the deadly Lion Air crash, the company said Sunday. Boeing said that management was unaware of the issue until the crash in Indonesia, which killed 189 people, and the planes were not grounded until after another of the type operated by Ethiopian Airlines went down several months later, leaving a further 157 people dead. According to Boeing, a supposedly standard piece of equipment that tells the pilot about disagreements between the angle of attack (AOA) indicators -- which measure the plane's angle vis-a-vis oncoming air to warn of impending stalls -- did not, in fact, activate unless an additional optional indicator was purchased by airlines. That left airlines that did not buy the optional indicator -- including both Lion Air and Ethiopian Airlines -- without the safety feature. The faulty angle of attack indicator information may have played a role in both of the deadly crashes, causing the 737 MAX anti-stall system to unnecessarily activate and push the nose down toward the ground even as pilots fought to maintain altitude. "In 2017, within several months after beginning 737 MAX deliveries, engineers at Boeing identified that the 737 MAX display system software did not correctly meet the AOA Disagree alert requirements," the aircraft manufacturer said in a statement. "The software delivered to Boeing linked the AOA Disagree alert to the AOA indicator, which is an optional feature," it said. "Accordingly, the software activated the AOA Disagree alert only if an airline opted for the AOA indicator." A Boeing review "determined that the absence of the AOA Disagree alert did not adversely impact aeroplane safety or operation," concluding that "the existing functionality was acceptable until the alert and the indicator could be delinked in the next planned display system software update," Boeing said. "Senior company leadership was not involved in the review and first became aware of this issue in the aftermath of the Lion Air accident." Boeing's entire 737 MAX fleet has been grounded since shortly after the Ethiopian Airlines crash in March, while investigators study the incidents and engineers work on solutions.

Engineers had identified fault with pilot warning system on its 737 MAX aircraft in 2017: Boeing

US regulators considered grounding some <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-wins-confidence-of-shareholders-prepares-for-key-737-max-test-flight-214795">Boeing 737 MAX planes</a> last year after learning of a problem with a system that is now the main suspect in two deadly crashes, a source close to the matter said.

Investigators in the Lion Air crash in October off the coast of Indonesia and the Ethiopia Airlines disaster in March have zeroed in on the planes' anti-stall system, called the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System, or MCAS.

Last year, inspectors with the Federal Aviation Administration discovered Boeing de-activated a signal designed to advise the cockpit crew of a malfunctioning of the MCAS system, the source said.

The inspectors were in charge of monitoring Southwest Airlines, the biggest user of 737 MAX planes, with a fleet of 34 of them at the time, added the source.

Before the Lion Air crash, which killed all 189 people on board, "the (signals) were depicted as operable by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-faces-fresh-lawsuits-from-families-of-boeing-737-max-crash-victims-214726">Boeing</a> on all MAX aircraft" regardless of whether the cockpit crew thought they had them turned on or off, said a Southwest spokeswoman.

She said after the accident, Boeing told Southwest the signals were "turned off unless they were specifically designated as being turned on" -- prompting the airline to choose that option for all its aircraft.

It was at that point inspectors learned Boeing had opted to make the malfunction alert an optional extra costing more money -- and had deactivated the signal on all 737 MAX delivered to Southwest without telling the carrier.

They considered recommending grounding the planes as they explored whether pilots flying the aircraft needed additional training about the alerts, said the source.

They decided against that -- but never passed details of the discussions to higher-ranking officials in the FAA, the source said, confirming a story in The Wall Street Journal.

A costly grounding

The FAA would not comment on the planes coming close to being grounded last year.

The Ethiopia Airlines crash left all 157 people on the plane dead and led to all Boeing 737 Max planes all over the world being grounded. In this case too the MCAS is being looked at as a possible cause of the crash.

In times of mid-air distress, the system is supposed to activate on its own and push the nose of the plane down to keep it from stalling. &nbsp;

Boeing is working on changing the MCAS so it can get the planes back in the air.

The grounding has already cost the carrier a billion dollars, Boeing said last week.&nbsp;

But the bill will probably climb because Boeing is expected to pay money to airlines forced to cancel thousands of flights and hire more reservations and services staff.&nbsp;

Boeing has suspended deliveries of Boeing 737 Max planes and cut production of them by 20 percent.

Neither of the Boeing 737 Max planes in the Lion Air crash in Indonesia or the Ethiopian Airlines crash were equipped with the signal that is supposed to show a malfunctioning of the MCAS, an industry source told AFP in March.

Called "disagree lights" in Boeing parlance, these lights turn on when faulty information is sent from so-called angle of attack sensors to the MCAS. Those sensors monitor whether the wings have enough lift to keep the plane flying.

"As we return to service, all customers will have the AOA disagree alert as standard and have the option to include the AOA indicator at no cost. This change will be made to all MAX aircraft -- production and retrofit," Boeing told AFP in a statement Sunday.

"A new software update will separate those two features, making AOA disagree alert a standalone standard feature and keeping AOA indicator as an additional customer-selected option."

In the case of the Lion Air crash, investigators think one of the angle of attack sensors may have failed and sent incorrect data to the MCAS, causing its nose to go down as pilots fought to bring it back up.

The MCAS overrides the pilots manual efforts to point the plane up or down.

With the angle of attack sensor not working properly, the thing to do would have been to turn off the MCAS. But the Lion Air cockpit crew did not know that.&nbsp;

US regulators considered grounding some Boeing 737 MAX planes last year after learning of a problem with a system that is now the main suspect in two deadly crashes, a source close to the matter said.

US regulators considered grounding some Boeing 737 MAX planes last year after learning of a problem with a system that is now the main suspect in two deadly crashes, a source close to the matter said. Investigators in the Lion Air crash in October off the coast of Indonesia and the Ethiopia Airlines disaster in March have zeroed in on the planes' anti-stall system, called the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System, or MCAS. Last year, inspectors with the Federal Aviation Administration discovered Boeing de-activated a signal designed to advise the cockpit crew of a malfunctioning of the MCAS system, the source said. The inspectors were in charge of monitoring Southwest Airlines, the biggest user of 737 MAX planes, with a fleet of 34 of them at the time, added the source. Before the Lion Air crash, which killed all 189 people on board, "the (signals) were depicted as operable by Boeing on all MAX aircraft" regardless of whether the cockpit crew thought they had them turned on or off, said a Southwest spokeswoman. She said after the accident, Boeing told Southwest the signals were "turned off unless they were specifically designated as being turned on" -- prompting the airline to choose that option for all its aircraft. It was at that point inspectors learned Boeing had opted to make the malfunction alert an optional extra costing more money -- and had deactivated the signal on all 737 MAX delivered to Southwest without telling the carrier. They considered recommending grounding the planes as they explored whether pilots flying the aircraft needed additional training about the alerts, said the source. They decided against that -- but never passed details of the discussions to higher-ranking officials in the FAA, the source said, confirming a story in The Wall Street Journal. A costly grounding The FAA would not comment on the planes coming close to being grounded last year. The Ethiopia Airlines crash left all 157 people on the plane dead and led to all Boeing 737 Max planes all over the world being grounded. In this case too the MCAS is being looked at as a possible cause of the crash. In times of mid-air distress, the system is supposed to activate on its own and push the nose of the plane down to keep it from stalling. Boeing is working on changing the MCAS so it can get the planes back in the air. The grounding has already cost the carrier a billion dollars, Boeing said last week. But the bill will probably climb because Boeing is expected to pay money to airlines forced to cancel thousands of flights and hire more reservations and services staff. Boeing has suspended deliveries of Boeing 737 Max planes and cut production of them by 20 percent. Neither of the Boeing 737 Max planes in the Lion Air crash in Indonesia or the Ethiopian Airlines crash were equipped with the signal that is supposed to show a malfunctioning of the MCAS, an industry source told AFP in March. Called "disagree lights" in Boeing parlance, these lights turn on when faulty information is sent from so-called angle of attack sensors to the MCAS. Those sensors monitor whether the wings have enough lift to keep the plane flying. "As we return to service, all customers will have the AOA disagree alert as standard and have the option to include the AOA indicator at no cost. This change will be made to all MAX aircraft -- production and retrofit," Boeing told AFP in a statement Sunday. "A new software update will separate those two features, making AOA disagree alert a standalone standard feature and keeping AOA indicator as an additional customer-selected option." In the case of the Lion Air crash, investigators think one of the angle of attack sensors may have failed and sent incorrect data to the MCAS, causing its nose to go down as pilots fought to bring it back up. The MCAS overrides the pilots manual efforts to point the plane up or down. With the angle of attack sensor not working properly, the thing to do would have been to turn off the MCAS. But the Lion Air cockpit crew did not know that.

FAA considered grounding some Boeing 737 Max planes last year: Source

Fresh lawsuits were filed against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-making-steady-progress-on-certifying-737-max-software-update-ceo-211569">Boeing </a>at the federal district court in Chicago&nbsp;by two families of passengers who lost their lives in the recent Ethiopian Airlines <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-i-were-boeing-i-would-fix-737-max-and-rebrand-the-plane-with-a-new-name-trump-210614">Boeing</a> 737 MAX crash that left all the 157 people on board dead.

The two plaintiffs - Manant Vaidya and Paul Njoroge - lost several close family members in the March 10 crash, which spurred the grounding of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-737-max-software-upgrade-operationally-suitable-faa-panel-211034">Boeing MAX jets</a> by a number of countries, including India.

Three generations of Canada-based Vaidya`s family, which had Indian origin, were killed. Those dead included the man`s father Pannagesh Bhaskar Vaidya, mother Hansini Pannagesh Vaidya, sister Kosha Pannagesh Vaidya, brother-in-law Preritkumar Dixit and two nieces, 14-year-old Ashka Dixit and 13-year-old Anushka Dixit.

"I lost three generations of my family, my parents, my sister, my nieces. If a person lost just one life, their whole life is shattered. But right now with me, I`m more like, I don`t know. I`m completely lost right now," Vaidya, accompanied by his wife Hiral, said during a news conference at the Clifford Law Offices here on Monday.

The other plaintiff, Njoroge, lost his wife Carolyne Nduta Karanja, mother-in-law Ann Karanja, and three children -- six-year-old son Ryan Njoroge Njuguna and daughters Kellie W. Pauls, four years, and Rubi W. Pauls, nine months, in the deadly crash, according to Xinhua.

"I stay up all night crying, thinking of the horror that they must have endured as pilots struggled to keep the plane flying for six minutes...The terror that my wife must have experienced with little Rubi on her lap...Our two children beside her, crying for their daddy, my mom-in-law, feeling helplessness...Those six minutes will forever be embedded in my mind. I was not there to help them. I couldn`t save them," Njoroge said, choking several times while reading out his statement.

Boeing has been working on safer technology updates after coming under fire following two crashes - the Ethiopian Airlines crash and the Lion Air crash - which took place within five months of each other and claimed the lives of 346 people.

The aircraft manufacturer`s shares plummeted to its worst-ever low following the March crash, seeing an approximate 5 per cent drop in its stock price since the incident.

"We at Boeing are sorry for the lives lost in the recent 737 MAX accidents...All of us feel the immense gravity of these events across our company and recognize the devastation of the families and friends of the loved ones who perished," Boeing President and CEO Dennis Muilenburg said in a statement earlier."

We`ve had teams of our top engineers and technical experts working tirelessly in collaboration with the Federal Aviation Administration and our customers to finalize and implement a software update that will ensure accidents like that of Lion Air Flight 610 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 never happen again," it read.

The fresh lawsuits join a string of others which were filed against the American company in the aftermath of the crashes. 
&nbsp;

Fresh lawsuits were filed against Boeing at the federal district court in Chicago by two families of passengers who lost their lives in the recent Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 MAX crash that left all the 157 people on board dead.

Fresh lawsuits were filed against Boeing at the federal district court in Chicago by two families of passengers who lost their lives in the recent Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 MAX crash that left all the 157 people on board dead. The two plaintiffs - Manant Vaidya and Paul Njoroge - lost several close family members in the March 10 crash, which spurred the grounding of Boeing MAX jets by a number of countries, including India. Three generations of Canada-based Vaidya`s family, which had Indian origin, were killed. Those dead included the man`s father Pannagesh Bhaskar Vaidya, mother Hansini Pannagesh Vaidya, sister Kosha Pannagesh Vaidya, brother-in-law Preritkumar Dixit and two nieces, 14-year-old Ashka Dixit and 13-year-old Anushka Dixit. "I lost three generations of my family, my parents, my sister, my nieces. If a person lost just one life, their whole life is shattered. But right now with me, I`m more like, I don`t know. I`m completely lost right now," Vaidya, accompanied by his wife Hiral, said during a news conference at the Clifford Law Offices here on Monday. The other plaintiff, Njoroge, lost his wife Carolyne Nduta Karanja, mother-in-law Ann Karanja, and three children -- six-year-old son Ryan Njoroge Njuguna and daughters Kellie W. Pauls, four years, and Rubi W. Pauls, nine months, in the deadly crash, according to Xinhua. "I stay up all night crying, thinking of the horror that they must have endured as pilots struggled to keep the plane flying for six minutes...The terror that my wife must have experienced with little Rubi on her lap...Our two children beside her, crying for their daddy, my mom-in-law, feeling helplessness...Those six minutes will forever be embedded in my mind. I was not there to help them. I couldn`t save them," Njoroge said, choking several times while reading out his statement. Boeing has been working on safer technology updates after coming under fire following two crashes - the Ethiopian Airlines crash and the Lion Air crash - which took place within five months of each other and claimed the lives of 346 people. The aircraft manufacturer`s shares plummeted to its worst-ever low following the March crash, seeing an approximate 5 per cent drop in its stock price since the incident. "We at Boeing are sorry for the lives lost in the recent 737 MAX accidents...All of us feel the immense gravity of these events across our company and recognize the devastation of the families and friends of the loved ones who perished," Boeing President and CEO Dennis Muilenburg said in a statement earlier." We`ve had teams of our top engineers and technical experts working tirelessly in collaboration with the Federal Aviation Administration and our customers to finalize and implement a software update that will ensure accidents like that of Lion Air Flight 610 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 never happen again," it read. The fresh lawsuits join a string of others which were filed against the American company in the aftermath of the crashes.

Boeing faces fresh lawsuits from families of Boeing 737 MAX crash victims

Flydubai's chairman warned on Monday the airline could order Airbus A320neos as replacements for <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-ceo-faces-shareholders-for-first-time-since-737-max-crashes-214296&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiY37SAxfXhAhUQ2o8KHStLAPcQFjAAegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3k-L0kWNWXBrPgeIC8pSBm">Boeing 737 MAX jets</a>, telling the US planemaker to improve communication with customers.

The 737 MAX has been grounded after an <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-ceo-faces-shareholders-for-first-time-since-737-max-crashes-214296&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwickfeSxfXhAhVKknAKHXmbDuIQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1vG9MwJolq9FcOPkOJERNa">Ethiopian Airlines</a> jet crashed in March and a LionAir jet crashed last October, killing a total of 346 people.

The Middle East carrier operates a fleet of only 737 aircraft and is one of the largest MAX operators having ordered 250 of the new model narrow-body jets.

Flydubai has had to ground its 14 MAX jets, accounting for roughly 10 per cent of its fleet, and cancel up to 15 flights a day.

"That gave me an option to talk to Airbus," Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed al-Maktoum told reporters at the Arabian Travel Market exhibition in Dubai.

"You have to understand that we do not have a definite date on when this (MAX) aircraft will be flying."

Flydubai said in March the MAX was integral to its future.

Other airlines have weighed their options since the grounding. A decision from Saudi Arabian budget carrier on whether to proceed with an existing order for 30 MAX jets is imminent, its chief executive said on Sunday.

Flydubai potentially swapping any or part of its order comes as the world's largest planemaker faces one of the biggest crises in its 103-year history.

Boeing, which holds its annual meeting in Chicago on Monday, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Flydubai is the second biggest MAX customer and last committed to Boeing's best selling jet in 2017 with an order worth $27 billion including purchasing options.

Sheikh Ahmed, who is also the Emirates Chairman, said flydubai would act within its contract terms with Boeing but would not allow anything to stop the airline's growth.

He did not say when flydubai would decide on whether it pursues a replacement order with Airbus.

Sheikh Ahmed also said that Boeing's communication with customer over the grounding and how it plans to recertify the plane "could be better."

Boeing has said it is developing a software fix and new pilot training for regulatory approval in order to get the company's best-selling plane recertified.

Sheikh Ahmed said more needed to be known about those fixes and the how long the plane grounding will last. He said flydubai would seek compensation from Boeing.

"I have to ask it. It is my right. I didn't ground those 14 aircraft," he said.

Flydubai's chairman warned on Monday the airline could order Airbus A320neos as replacements for Boeing 737 MAX jets, telling the US planemaker to improve communication with customers.

Flydubai's chairman warned on Monday the airline could order Airbus A320neos as replacements for Boeing 737 MAX jets, telling the US planemaker to improve communication with customers. The 737 MAX has been grounded after an Ethiopian Airlines jet crashed in March and a LionAir jet crashed last October, killing a total of 346 people. The Middle East carrier operates a fleet of only 737 aircraft and is one of the largest MAX operators having ordered 250 of the new model narrow-body jets. Flydubai has had to ground its 14 MAX jets, accounting for roughly 10 per cent of its fleet, and cancel up to 15 flights a day. "That gave me an option to talk to Airbus," Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed al-Maktoum told reporters at the Arabian Travel Market exhibition in Dubai. "You have to understand that we do not have a definite date on when this (MAX) aircraft will be flying." Flydubai said in March the MAX was integral to its future. Other airlines have weighed their options since the grounding. A decision from Saudi Arabian budget carrier on whether to proceed with an existing order for 30 MAX jets is imminent, its chief executive said on Sunday. Flydubai potentially swapping any or part of its order comes as the world's largest planemaker faces one of the biggest crises in its 103-year history. Boeing, which holds its annual meeting in Chicago on Monday, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Flydubai is the second biggest MAX customer and last committed to Boeing's best selling jet in 2017 with an order worth $27 billion including purchasing options. Sheikh Ahmed, who is also the Emirates Chairman, said flydubai would act within its contract terms with Boeing but would not allow anything to stop the airline's growth. He did not say when flydubai would decide on whether it pursues a replacement order with Airbus. Sheikh Ahmed also said that Boeing's communication with customer over the grounding and how it plans to recertify the plane "could be better." Boeing has said it is developing a software fix and new pilot training for regulatory approval in order to get the company's best-selling plane recertified. Sheikh Ahmed said more needed to be known about those fixes and the how long the plane grounding will last. He said flydubai would seek compensation from Boeing. "I have to ask it. It is my right. I didn't ground those 14 aircraft," he said.

Flydubai could take Airbus jets if Boeing MAX grounding prolonged

The US <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-to-meet-with-us-airlines-over-737-max-209743&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjh3Mi22eDhAhUk7XMBHfeqBQ0QFggIMAE&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw27S_SCoua_RrL3Lcf0N5Y-">Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)</a> on Saturday said that it is planning to review control systems of <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/american-airlines-cancels-115-flights-daily-over-boeing-737-max-until-august-210442&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjh3Mi22eDhAhUk7XMBHfeqBQ0QFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw14ax54637UFrgv65buhj4j">Boeing 737 MAX </a>aircraft following dozens of complaints filed by the company`s employees regarding production issues.

The company, in a statement, said that it will include experts from nine civil aviation authorities.

"The Joint Authorities Technical Review (JATR) will conduct a comprehensive review of the certification of the aircraft`s automated flight control system, including its design and pilots` interaction with the system, to determine its compliance with all applicable regulations and to identify future enhancements that might be needed," the statement said.

The review is set to begin on April 29 and is expected to continue for an estimated period of 90 days, the FAA announced.

The decision comes after The New York Times on Friday reviewed "hundreds of pages of internal emails, corporate documents and federal records, as well as interviews with more than a dozen current and former employees of the North Charleston plant, revealing a culture that often valued production speed over quality."

"Workers have filed nearly a dozen whistle-blower claims and safety complaints with federal regulators, describing issues like defective manufacturing, debris left on planes and pressure to not report violations," the report said.

"Others have sued Boeing, saying they were retaliated against for flagging manufacturing mistakes," it added.

The model 737 MAX came under scrutiny after 346 people lost their lives in two deadly plane crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia.

On March 10, 157 people on board an Ethiopian Airlines flight -- a Boeing 737 MAX jet -- lost their lives after the flight crashed just a few minutes after it took off from Adis Ababa.

In October last year, a Boeing 737 MAX Lion Air flight crashed in Indonesia, claiming the lives of all 181 people on board. Investigations are ongoing into both the incidents.

The March 10 incident became the second instance that the Boeing 737 MAX jet was involved in a crash within a span of five months.

This triggered safety concerns, leading to several countries and airlines grounding the aircraft around the world.

Preliminary report of the investigations of the plane crash found issues with the Jets` Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS), an automated flight control system that can force a plane to dive down unexpectedly.

Boeing recently carried out an engineering test flight of a Max plane with an updated MCAS system, considered a key step on the path to re-certifying the plane for flight.

Boeing CEO, Dennis Muilenburg, who was also on board, vowed to make the 737 MAX "one of the safest aeroplanes ever to fly."&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Saturday said that it is planning to review control systems of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft following dozens of complaints filed by the company`s employees regarding production issues.

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Saturday said that it is planning to review control systems of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft following dozens of complaints filed by the company`s employees regarding production issues. The company, in a statement, said that it will include experts from nine civil aviation authorities. "The Joint Authorities Technical Review (JATR) will conduct a comprehensive review of the certification of the aircraft`s automated flight control system, including its design and pilots` interaction with the system, to determine its compliance with all applicable regulations and to identify future enhancements that might be needed," the statement said. The review is set to begin on April 29 and is expected to continue for an estimated period of 90 days, the FAA announced. The decision comes after The New York Times on Friday reviewed "hundreds of pages of internal emails, corporate documents and federal records, as well as interviews with more than a dozen current and former employees of the North Charleston plant, revealing a culture that often valued production speed over quality." "Workers have filed nearly a dozen whistle-blower claims and safety complaints with federal regulators, describing issues like defective manufacturing, debris left on planes and pressure to not report violations," the report said. "Others have sued Boeing, saying they were retaliated against for flagging manufacturing mistakes," it added. The model 737 MAX came under scrutiny after 346 people lost their lives in two deadly plane crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia. On March 10, 157 people on board an Ethiopian Airlines flight -- a Boeing 737 MAX jet -- lost their lives after the flight crashed just a few minutes after it took off from Adis Ababa. In October last year, a Boeing 737 MAX Lion Air flight crashed in Indonesia, claiming the lives of all 181 people on board. Investigations are ongoing into both the incidents. The March 10 incident became the second instance that the Boeing 737 MAX jet was involved in a crash within a span of five months. This triggered safety concerns, leading to several countries and airlines grounding the aircraft around the world. Preliminary report of the investigations of the plane crash found issues with the Jets` Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS), an automated flight control system that can force a plane to dive down unexpectedly. Boeing recently carried out an engineering test flight of a Max plane with an updated MCAS system, considered a key step on the path to re-certifying the plane for flight. Boeing CEO, Dennis Muilenburg, who was also on board, vowed to make the 737 MAX "one of the safest aeroplanes ever to fly."

US Aviation Authority to review Boeing 737 MAX aircraft amid production issues

The Federal Aviation Administration on Tuesday released its initial review of Boeing’s update to its 737 Max anti-stall software suspected of contributing to two fatal plane crashes, calling it “operationally suitable.”

Boeing 737 Max software gets FAA Nod

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/china-orders-its-airlines-to-suspend-use-of-boeing-737-max-aircraft-202485&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjZqZGQxNThAhUK3Y8KHbTNDxkQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3muiyNBGeh4YlB7xnviVYL">China</a>'s aviation regulator said on Tuesday that it had set up a task force to review design changes to the Boeing Co 737 MAX that had been submitted by the planemaker after the fleet was grounded last month.

The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) has reverted to Boeing and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on issues regarding the aircraft's airworthiness and is waiting for their response, the Chinese regulator said in a statement on its website.

China was the first country to ground the newest version of Boeing's workhorse 737 models last month following a deadly <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopian-plane-crash-investigators-recover-black-boxes-from-boeing-737-max-8-202673&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjr_b2fxNThAhXG4nMBHXvNAd0QFggIMAE&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3UCZCIa7kIQ40D9J4tHQFH">Ethiopian Airlines crash</a> on March 10.

Boeing filed an application on March 15 through the FAA to obtain an airworthiness certificate from CAAC, the Chinese regulator said in the statement that summarised remarks from a monthly briefing.

CAAC said it had since set up a task force to review changes submitted by Boeing in accordance with a bilateral agreement between the United States and China.

The Chinese regulator did not specify the changes submitted. Boeing is planning to update the software on an anti-stall system linked to the Ethiopian Airlines crash and an earlier one of Indonesia's Lion Air but the planemaker has not yet submitted the update to FAA for approval.

CAAC is one of several regulators taking part in an FAA review panel on the 737 MAX which is expected to start this month.

The Chinese regulator said one of its pilot experts and one expert on aircraft certification would join the panel.

CAAC said it would make sure that every 737 MAX undergoes the necessary design changes and every pilot receives the necessary training before the fleet returns to service.

Chinese airlines operated 97 of the 371 737 MAX jets in service before the grounding, the most of any country, according to Flightglobal data.

China's aviation regulator said on Tuesday that it had set up a task force to review design changes to the Boeing Co 737 MAX that had been submitted by the planemaker after the fleet was grounded last month.

China's aviation regulator said on Tuesday that it had set up a task force to review design changes to the Boeing Co 737 MAX that had been submitted by the planemaker after the fleet was grounded last month. The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) has reverted to Boeing and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on issues regarding the aircraft's airworthiness and is waiting for their response, the Chinese regulator said in a statement on its website. China was the first country to ground the newest version of Boeing's workhorse 737 models last month following a deadly Ethiopian Airlines crash on March 10. Boeing filed an application on March 15 through the FAA to obtain an airworthiness certificate from CAAC, the Chinese regulator said in the statement that summarised remarks from a monthly briefing. CAAC said it had since set up a task force to review changes submitted by Boeing in accordance with a bilateral agreement between the United States and China. The Chinese regulator did not specify the changes submitted. Boeing is planning to update the software on an anti-stall system linked to the Ethiopian Airlines crash and an earlier one of Indonesia's Lion Air but the planemaker has not yet submitted the update to FAA for approval. CAAC is one of several regulators taking part in an FAA review panel on the 737 MAX which is expected to start this month. The Chinese regulator said one of its pilot experts and one expert on aircraft certification would join the panel. CAAC said it would make sure that every 737 MAX undergoes the necessary design changes and every pilot receives the necessary training before the fleet returns to service. Chinese airlines operated 97 of the 371 737 MAX jets in service before the grounding, the most of any country, according to Flightglobal data.

China forms task force to review design changes to Boeing 737 MAX

Boeing working to fix 737 Max anti-stall system

Boeing to reduces 737 MAX production

Boeing Defends "Fundamental Safety" Of plane After Crash Report

Boeing 737 Max aircrafts to stay grounded

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