The US aircraft manufacturer Boeing has resumed production of its 737 MAX crisis jet, which was banned from take-off after two crashes. It is not known, however, when the 737 MAX will be able to return to operation.
In 2019, after two crashes within a few months in which a total of 346 people died, the machines were grounded all over the world. The cause of both disasters was probably faulty software controlling the MCAS system. To start transporting passengers again using this flagship aircraft, Boeing must first obtain the green signal from civil aviation authorities on the modifications made, in particular on the anti-stall software MCAS.
Initiatives to improve occupational safety and product quality would be implemented at the main facility in Renton near Seattle.
“The steps we’ve taken in the factory will help drive our goal of 100 percent quality for our customers while supporting our ongoing commitment to workplace safety,” said Scott Stocker, vice president of 737 Manufacturing.
This aircraft represents more than two-thirds of the order book and is central to the medium-term survival of the aircraft manufacturer. The problems of the company were additionally aggravated by the coronavirus pandemic crisis. So, it has reduced production and announced a reduction in employment by about 10%. This means that approximately 16,000 people may lose their jobs in the coming months.
The 737 MAX is the only product from Boeing that can compete with the A320NEO and the A220, two models of its European rival Airbus. In addition to the return to service, there are still uncertainties about the resumption of deliveries of the 737 MAX, suspended for a year.
