In what some pilots are calling an inconceivable moment in flight operations and training, Boeing recently admitted the existence of the maneuvering characteristics augmentation system (MCAS), an angle of attack related stall prevention system that was unknown to operators of the Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft, like the one flown last week by a Lion Air crew when it departed Jakarta Indonesia. The Lion Air crew experienced an unexpected nose pitch down shortly after takeoff as the aircraft was passing through 5,000 feet. Unable to recover from the event, all 189 people aboard perished in the crash that followed.
Lion Air Investigation Takes an Unexpected Turn
Key Takeaways:
- Boeing recently admitted the existence of the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS) on the 737 Max 8, a stall prevention system previously unknown to operators and omitted from pilot training and manuals.
- This disclosure followed the Lion Air crash, with a circumstantial link suggested between MCAS (potentially triggered by erroneous angle of attack sensor input) and the unexpected nose-down pitch that led to the accident.
- Pilots and pilot associations expressed strong criticism and "outrage" over Boeing's decision not to inform flight crews about the MCAS, demanding full transparency on all aircraft systems.
- Boeing's internal risk assessment reportedly deemed a detailed explanation of MCAS unnecessary due to the perceived remote chance of the system activating in flight.
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