Will the 737 Max 8 Regain Public Trust When the FAA Approves It?

Introduction:

The discussion over the future of the Boeing 737 Max 8 remains one of the most significant debates in the aviation industry. The crash of Lion Air flight 610 and Ethiopian Airlines flight 302 in rapid succession sparked an international crisis. Now, as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) potentially clears the way for its return, it's essential to examine how public trust and the general public's perception may evolve in the wake of this approval.

Public Perception and Human Nature

Human beings naturally have a predisposition towards fear and wariness, especially when it comes to issues of safety and survival. After the catastrophic attacks on the World Trade Center, numerous people hesitated to return to high-rise buildings. This reaction isn't unique; it's deeply rooted in our human nature.

When events like these occur, fear becomes a powerful factor that influences individual decisions. As one commentator astutely observed, we wouldn't be human beings if we didn't experience fear. Fear of the unknown, fear of the unseen, and fear of potential disaster are integral to our psychological makeup. As such, when a major incident occurs, it can take time for the affected communities to regain their confidence and trust.

The Evolution of Public Perception and Trust

The process of reestablishing trust is multifaceted and often takes time. Several factors will play a role in how the 737 Max 8 is received by the general public when the FAA approves it:

Individual Memory and Experience: Those who have spent time researching the cause and nature of the accidents will likely have a different perspective from those who remain unfamiliar with the details. Public Backlash: It's expected that the general public may experience some level of backlash. This backlash can manifest in various forms, including increased scrutiny and a reluctance to trust the plane. Stock Performance and Industry Confidence: The stock market performance of airlines that fly the 737 Max 8 will also be a key indicator of public sentiment. Positive stock performance can signal the beginning of a return to confidence, while significant negative reactions may indicate lingering distrust.

Airline Safety and Public Trust

Air travel is widely acknowledged as the safest form of transportation, especially when considering the vast number of miles traveled and the millions of passengers it carries each year. Despite this, specific incidents can erode public trust. According to statistics, more people are killed on motor coach tours and busses than on airplanes. Therefore, the 737 Max 8's return to service is not an anomaly but part of a broader context where air travel is still the safest mode of transportation per mile traveled.

However, the key challenge lies in the perception of safety. Even if the structural and mechanical issues are resolved, the lingering psychological impact from the two tragic incidents could persist. This is a complex issue that involves both practical and human psychological dimensions.

Conclusion

The return of the 737 Max 8 to service is a critical milestone for the aviation industry. While the FAA's approval is a positive step, the ultimate question is whether the general public will trust the plane again. The factors influencing public perception, including individual experiences, market performance, and the inherent human fear of the unknown, will all play a crucial role in this process. As the industry progresses, it will be essential to maintain transparency, provide reassurance, and build a robust safety framework to regain public trust.