Operators of Boeing’s controversial 737 Max planes will have to carry out repeated tests on its flight control systems, US regulator the FAA stipulated.
The plane was grounded around the world in March 2020 after two fatal crashes linked to its flight control systems.
The FAA directive said airlines must “revise their existing maintenance programmes to include three additional repetitive inspections”.
“Specific electric checks” must also be carried out on aircraft with more than 6,000h of flight “to verify the correct operation of the aeroplane’s automated flight control system”, the FAA said.
The FAA’s directives were published just as Ryanair PLC (LON:RYA) took receipt of its first plane in an order of 210 MAX’s.
The airline has been a consistent supporter of the aircraft in spite of the two fatal crashes and was enthusiastic about its potential yesterday.
In a statement, Ryanair’s chief executive Michael O’Leary said he was delighted to take delivery of its first new technology ‘Gamchanger’ aircraft.
“These new Boeing 737 aircraft will help Ryanair lower costs, cut fuel consumption and lower noise and CO2 emissions.
"Each B737 aircraft offers 197 seats (compared to our 189-seat current 737 fleet)."
Passengers though will have the option of not flying on a 737 MAX if they so choose, he added, though they won’t get a refund but be transferred to the next available flight on the route.