The Boeing 737 MAX 7, the smallest version of a single-aisle MAX plane, finally won certification after its first flight over eight years ago, U.S. authorities announced on Monday, Aug. 3. New requirements under federal legislation had significantly drawn out the process following two fatal MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019.
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Stephanie Pope, president of Boeing Commercial Aeroplanes, said:
“This important certification validates the rigour of our aeroplane’s design and recognises the determination and resilience of our 737 MAX development team. Our team stayed focused on completing all requirements and delivering a safe and more capable airplane to our customers.”
The Long-awaited Certification
The FAA approval came after “almost a decade of extensive review” following “years of sustained work to resolve complex technical issues,” the agency said.
Boeing had intended for the 737 MAX 7 to begin deliveries in 2019 but was met with two fatal crashes caused by the poor design of an anti-stall system known as the Manoeuvring Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS). The system activated improperly and prevented pilots from regaining control of the planes.
To win certification following the crashes, Boeing completed 441 test flights over 686 test flight hours.
The process also included FAA reviews of a revamped and improved angle of attack (AOA) sensor after a fault caused the 2018 and 2019 crashes.
This certificate marks Boeing’s first new aircraft to be certified after being engulfed in safety problems in recent years.
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