Background on the Boeing 737 MAX and its Production Limit
The Boeing 737 MAX, a popular single-aisle jet airliner, has faced production limitations since January 2019 following a mid-air emergency involving an Alaska Airlines flight. The incident revealed that four critical bolts were missing from a newly manufactured 737 MAX. In response, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) imposed a production cap of 38 aircraft per month on Boeing.
FAA’s Stance on Production Cap and Inspection Policies
During a recent House of Representatives hearing, Acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau clarified that the agency is not considering raising the production cap of 38 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft per month. Rocheleau emphasized that the FAA is not discussing any changes to its policy of inspecting all Boeing 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner aircraft before issuing individual flight worthiness certificates, rather than delegating these tasks to Boeing.
FAA’s Extended Program with Boeing
Last week, the FAA extended for three years a program that allows Boeing to perform certain tasks on behalf of the agency, such as inspections. This extension ensures continued collaboration between the FAA and Boeing while maintaining the agency’s oversight responsibilities.
Impact on Boeing and the Aviation Industry
Boeing, a leading global aerospace company, has been working diligently to restore confidence in the 737 MAX following two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019. The production cap has limited Boeing’s ability to meet customer demand, putting additional pressure on the company to expedite the aircraft’s return to service. The FAA’s stance on maintaining stringent inspection policies ensures passenger safety but may also prolong the recovery process for Boeing and the aviation industry.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What is the current production limit for Boeing 737 MAX aircraft? A: The FAA has set a production cap of 38 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft per month.
- Q: Is the FAA considering raising this production limit? A: Acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau stated that the agency is not currently considering increasing the production cap.
- Q: What inspection policies is the FAA maintaining? A: The FAA continues to inspect all Boeing 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner aircraft before issuing individual flight worthiness certificates, rather than delegating these tasks to Boeing.
- Q: How long will the FAA’s extended program with Boeing last? A: The FAA has extended for three years a program that allows Boeing to perform certain tasks on behalf of the agency, such as inspections.
