Boeing’s Plan To Build Better 737 MAX Planes.
Boeing has implemented a comprehensive overhaul of its design, manufacturing, and quality control processes of 737 MAX planes.
Key elements of Boeing’s plan include:
- Enhanced Quality Control: Implementing stricter quality control measures throughout the manufacturing process, including increased inspections and rigorous testing.
- Improved Training: Providing more comprehensive and in-depth training for employees, particularly those involved in aircraft assembly and maintenance.
- Simplified Processes: Streamlining design and manufacturing processes to reduce the potential for errors and misunderstandings.
- Strengthened Safety Culture: Creating a stronger safety culture within the company, emphasizing the importance of reporting and addressing safety concerns.
- Increased Transparency: Enhancing communication with regulators, airlines, and the public to build trust and confidence in the 737 MAX.
- Mandatory Software Updates: Implementing the MCAS software update and additional safety enhancements to prevent similar accidents.
Design and Engineering Changes
- MCAS Overhaul: The primary culprit in the crashes, the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS), underwent significant modifications. It now requires two Angle of Attack (AOA) sensors to activate, rather than just one, and its activation is limited to prevent excessive nose-down trim.
- AOA Sensor Redundancy: Additional sensors were added to provide more reliable data to the flight control system.
- Pilot Training: Boeing developed more comprehensive pilot training programs, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and responding to unusual flight conditions.
Manufacturing and Quality Control
- Rigorous Inspections: Increased inspections and testing were implemented throughout the manufacturing process to ensure adherence to design specifications.
- Supplier Oversight: Enhanced scrutiny of suppliers to guarantee the quality of components used in the aircraft.
- Culture of Safety: Boeing emphasized a safety-first culture within the company, encouraging employees to report any concerns without fear of reprisal.
Regulatory Compliance and Transparency
- FAA Oversight: Boeing worked closely with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to implement the necessary changes and regain certification.
- Public Communication: The company made efforts to improve communication with the public, airlines, and regulators, aiming to rebuild trust.
Additional Measures
- Software Updates: Boeing released software updates to address other identified issues beyond the MCAS system.
- Pilot Assistance Systems: The company explored the development of advanced pilot assistance systems to enhance safety.
It’s important to note that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has also played a crucial role in overseeing Boeing’s changes and ensuring the safety of the 737 MAX.