Smoke-Filled 737 Max Aircraft Prompt FAA Review

New takeoff instructions could direct pilots to turn off airflow from the engines into the cabin.

Caleb Revill

Monday, November 25, 2024 at 09:09 AM ET

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Edited By:

Travis Tingle

A CFM LEAP-1B engine on a 737 Max [Credit: AirlineGeeks | Katie Zera]

Key Takeaways:

The FAA is considering new temporary takeoff instructions for Boeing 737 Max pilots to prevent smoke from entering the cabin after a bird strike.
These instructions would require pilots to turn off the "bleed air" system, which links the main engines to the aircraft's interior for air conditioning and pressurization.
The proposed change follows two incidents in 2023 where 737 Max jets experienced smoke in the cabin due to bird strikes, leading to emergency landings.
While the FAA states this is not an "immediate flight-safety issue," the temporary solution could further delay the certification of the Boeing 737 Max 7 and Max 10 models.

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The FAA is considering new takeoff instructions for pilots of Boeing 737 Max jets to prevent smoke from entering the cabin or cockpit if a bird flies into the engine.

According to a Seattle Times report, pilots would be required to turn off the airflow that links the main engines to the aircraft’s interior if new instructions were approved. The report stated the temporary solution would be in effect until Boeing issues a permanent fix, and that could further delay the certification of Boeing’s already delayed Max 7 and Max 10 models.