Why the Boeing 737 Max 8 hasn't been Banned Despite the Tragedies

The Boeing 737 Max 8 remains under scrutiny after two fatal crashes in less than two years, yet it hasn't been banned. This article examines why the aircraft remains in service, exploring the differences between the Max and previous models, and why Alaska Airlines continued to use the aircraft despite recent safety warnings.

Boeing and FAA: Smarter Than We Give Them Credit For?

The decision not to ban the 737 Max 8 is often attributed to the superior knowledge and wisdom of Boeing and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). When the aircraft was grounded in 2019 after the Ethiopian Airlines accident, it already had a much better safety record compared to Concorde. Since the software issues were resolved, the Max has maintained a perfect safety record up to this day. It is projected to be one of the safest narrow-body airliners in history.

Concorde: A Different Case

The Concorde was not banned due to a single fatal crash but because of a combination of factors, including the accident on July 25, 2000. This accident was the result of a series of events, primarily due to external factors, rather than inherent design flaws. Concorde had a questionable safety record even before the 2000 incident, with multiple fuel tank ruptures caused by tire failures. Despite these issues, Concorde was retired not because of the safety concerns but due to the economic downturn following 9/11.

The Question We Must Ask: Pilot Training or External Factors?

When questioning the safety of the 737 Max, it is crucial to consider the role of the pilots. While pilot error certainly plays a role, the question becomes whether it is the fault of the aircraft or the airline. In the case of the 737 Max, grounding decisions are highly nuanced and involve a balance between safety and operational continuity.

Airline Decisions and Future Safety

Alaska Airline's decision to continue flying the 737 Max despite recent pressurization system warnings raises another important question. While these warnings indicate potential system issues, the decision to continue flights highlights the importance of constant vigilance in aviation. The Max's software has been improved, and the recent impeccable safety record suggests a necessary reevaluation of previous concerns.

The Grounding of the Boeing 737 Max

On March 11, 2019, the world took immediate action when the Boeing 737 Max was grounded. This decision was taken after the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 crash, with careful consideration from airlines and regulators worldwide. Boeing's CEO, Dennis Muilenburg, sought the president's approval to ground the aircraft in the U.S. following a consultation with his board of directors. The decision was not made hastily; it was based on a thorough analysis of the data collected from the Ethiopian crash and a comparison with the previous Lion Air crash.

Conclusion

The continued operation of the Boeing 737 Max 8 is a complex issue, influenced by a combination of technical advancements, regulatory oversight, and operational considerations. While the aircraft has a blemished safety record, recent improvements and a flawless current safety record suggest that the decision to keep it in service is based on meticulous evaluation and safety prioritization.

As we move forward, it is essential to focus on enhancing training, improving system reliability, and maintaining a keen eye on both the aircraft and human factors that contribute to aviation safety.