CHICAGO, Ill. – Boeing has identified a new issue with the 737 MAX aircraft, further delaying the aircraft’s return to service. The problem is related to the manufacturing of the aircraft’s fuselage and affects about 8% of the planes that were inspected.
The company has informed the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) about the problem and is working to resolve it. This latest setback raises concerns about the timeline for the 737 MAX’s return to commercial service.
Boeing has been dealing with a series of issues with the 737 MAX, including the grounding of the aircraft worldwide following two fatal crashes. The company is now facing the challenge of ensuring that all identified problems are fixed before the plane can be deemed safe to fly again.
The 737 MAX was grounded in March 2019 after two crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia killed 346 people. The crashes were attributed to flaws in the aircraft’s design and the failure of Boeing and the FAA to adequately oversee the plane’s safety.
The new problem with the fuselages adds to the growing list of issues that Boeing has had to address. It is crucial for the company to demonstrate that it has thoroughly reviewed and addressed all potential problems to regain the trust of regulators and the public.
Boeing’s stock fell in response to the news of the latest problem with the 737 MAX, reflecting the ongoing challenges the company faces in resolving the issues with its flagship aircraft.
The company is working closely with the FAA to address the problem and ensure that the 737 MAX can safely return to the skies. However, it is clear that Boeing still has a long road ahead in rebuilding its reputation and ensuring the safety of its aircraft.