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- The Boeing 737 MAX was grounded worldwide in March 2019 following two fatal crashes, and resumed commercial service in the United States in December 2020 after software updates...
- The Federal aviation Management (FAA) grounded the Boeing 737 MAX on March 13, 2019, after the crash of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 on March 10, 2019, which followed...
- MCAS was designed to automatically push the nose of the aircraft down if it detected a stall, but relied on input from a single angle of attack (AOA)...
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Table of Contents The Boeing 737 MAX was grounded worldwide in March 2019 following two fatal crashes, and resumed commercial service in the United States in December 2020 after software updates and enhanced pilot training were implemented; as of January 28, 2026, the 737 MAX continues to operate globally with ongoing scrutiny from aviation regulators. The Federal aviation Management (FAA) grounded the Boeing 737 MAX on March 13, 2019, after the crash of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 on March 10, 2019, which followed the crash of Lion Air Flight 610 on October 29, 2018. both crashes were linked to a faulty Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS). MCAS was designed to automatically push the nose of the aircraft down if it detected a stall, but relied on input from a single angle of attack (AOA) sensor. In both crashes,a faulty AOA sensor triggered MCAS,and pilots were unable to regain control of the aircraft. Example: The FAA’s grounding order (Emergency Order 2019-03-13) explicitly prohibited the operation of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. Boeing worked to address the issues with MCAS, developing software updates that relied on input from two AOA sensors and limited the system’s authority. the FAA conducted a complete review of the 737 MAX’s design and software, and required enhanced pilot training, including simulator training focused on MCAS. On November 18, 2020, the FAA issued an Airworthiness directive (2020-23-02) that cleared the 737 MAX to fly again in the United States,contingent upon the implementation of the software updates and pilot training. American Airlines resumed commercial 737 MAX flights on December 29,2020. Detail: The recertification process involved over 60,000 flight hours of testing and analysis, and included input from international aviation authorities. While the 737 MAX has returned to service in most countries, scrutiny of the aircraft and Boeing’s safety culture continues. The department of Justice (DOJ) reached a settlement with Boeing in January 2021,requiring the company to pay over $2.5 billion to resolve criminal charges related to the 737 MAX crashes. (DOJ Press Release) As of January 28, 2026, the 737 MAX is operating globally, with airlines in North America, Europe, Asia, and South America utilizing the aircraft. Though, some airlines have experienced delays in returning the 737 MAX to their fleets due to ongoing inspections and supply chain issues. The FAA continues to monitor the aircraft’s performance and safety record. Example: In December 2023, the FAA announced a new inspection directive (2023-26-08) requiring inspections of certain 737 MAX components, demonstrating the ongoing oversight of the aircraft.The Initial Grounding (2019)
Recertification and Return to Service (2020-2021)
Ongoing Scrutiny and Global Status (2021-2026)