After the crash of two Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircrafts and the subsequent investigations, Boeing has admitted that the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) has “identified additional requirements” for software modifications. In both crashes, it is believed that the nose of the aircraft was pushed downward automatically without input from the pilots, ultimately causing the subsequent crashes.
The FAA has been testing Boeing’s new software for the aircraft. The FAA test pilots have discovered a flaw that could potentially push the nose of the aircraft downward.
Currently, the FAA has stated that they will not give a timetable to end the grounding of the aircraft. According to the agency, “the FAA’s process is designed to discover and highlight potential risks. The FAA recently found a potential risk that Boeing must mitigate”.
In order to prevent future incidents, Boeing is making changes to the aircraft’s MCAS or Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System. Boeing is reducing the aggressiveness of the MCAS system, as well as linking the system to an additional sensor in order prevent unnecessary forward control inputs.
Recently, airlines such as United have reported that their 737 MAX 8 aircrafts will not be used until at least this September. Other airlines have reported similar projections for when the aircraft will return to service.
Benny Agosto, Jr. is currently representing the families of three victims of Ethiopian Airlines flight 302 that crashed earlier this year in Ethiopia. Mr. Agosto is a partner at Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner in Houston, Texas. For over 68 years, Abraham Watkins has successfully represented injured people and families who fall victim to catastrophes. Our attorneys have the knowledge, experience and resources necessary to obtain just compensation their clients. If your life has been impacted by an aviation related incident, please contact the office of Benny Agosto, Jr. at Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner, by letter at 800 Commerce Street, Houston, Texas 77002, or by phone at (713) 222-7211.