May 18, 2019

Boeing uncovers flawed 737 MAX flight simulators

Boeing 737 MAX. Photo: Stephen Brashear/Getty Images

Boeing has newly found that its flight simulators used to train pilots failed to precisely imitate the conditions that resulted in its MCAS anti-stall system malfunctioning, the New York Times reports.

Why it matters: Airlines are seeking ways to ensure their pilots are able to handle any malfunctions on the 737 MAX once they resume service, Axios' Andrew Freedman writes. If the simulators fail to replicate what went wrong in the two fatal crashes, then pilots won’t be able to realistically experience how to properly respond, even if the FAA does not require the use of simulators.

  • This revelation seems sure to intensify concerns about Boeing as the company angles to regain its footing and following with the Lion Air and Ethiopian Airlines crashes in its wake. Its training has been a sore spot throughout the investigation into its 737 MAX aircraft.
  • Boeing said Thursday it completed its fix to the 737 MAX. With edits to the anti-stall system, the plan is to include new pilot training as well.

What's next: Per the New York Times, regulators are in the process of determining what training will be required. The company have changes authorized by regulators, who will need to approve them before the planes can take flight again.

Go deeper: Everything you need to know about the Boeing 737 MAX crashes

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Axios
Updated 49 mins ago - Politics & Policy

Coronavirus dashboard

Illustration: Sarah Grillo/Axios

  1. Global: Total confirmed cases as of 9 a.m. ET: 31,092,895 — Total deaths: 961,301— Total recoveries: 21,274,210 — Map.
  2. U.S.: Total confirmed cases as of 9 a.m. ET: 6,812,470 — Total deaths: 199,517 — Total recoveries: 2,590,671 — Total tests: 95,108,559 — Map.
  3. Health: CDC updates guidances to say coronavirus can be spread through the air — Nursing homes are evicting unwanted patients.
  4. Politics: Testing czar on Trump's CDC contradictions: "Everybody is right."
  5. Education: College students give failing grade on return to campus.
  6. Business: Unemployment concerns are growing.
  7. World: "The Wake-Up Call" warns the West about the consequences of mishandling a pandemic.
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1 hour ago - Energy & Environment

The climate stakes of the Supreme Court fight

Illustration: Aïda Amer/Axios

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