Boeing may begin test flights of the 737 Max, according to the FAA
“Flights with FAA pilot pilots could begin as early as tomorrow, assessing Boeing’s proposed changes to the automated flight control system at 737 MAX,” the administration wrote in a letter to lawmakers, which was given to CNN. “Testing is expected to take several days and will include a wide range of flight maneuvers and emergency procedures so the agency can assess whether FAA meets certification standards.”
“Boeing continues to work diligently to support the safe return of the 737 Max to commercial services. We leave it to the FAA and global process regulators,” Boeing said in a statement to CNN on Sunday.
The aircraft cannot be returned to service until it has received final FAA approval.
A letter from the FAA to Congress says the start of test flights does not mean the agency has “performed a compliance assessment or other job related to return to service.” In the letter, the agency outlined steps that will remain in the approval process after test flights, which include an assessment of minimum pilot training requirements among other processes.
– CNN’s Greg Wallace, Rebekah Riess and Hollie Silverman contributed to this report.
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