FAA to Allow Boeing to Issue Airworthiness Certificates for 737 MAX, 787

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) told Congress on Friday it will allow Boeing (BA) to issue airworthiness certificates for all 737 MAX and 787 aircraft, according to Reuters. This decision comes after the agency had revoked Boeing's authority to issue these certificates following the 737 MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019.

Details of the Action

The FAA is now permitting Boeing to issue airworthiness certificates for the 737 MAX and 787, a step that restores part of the self-certification authority the company previously held. However, the agency has not yet specified the exact timeline for resuming deliveries or the number of aircraft affected.

Company's Position

Boeing welcomed the decision, viewing it as recognition of the progress made in improving safety and quality processes. The company reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the FAA to ensure full compliance with regulatory standards.

Precedents and Context

The FAA revoked Boeing's authority to issue airworthiness certificates in March 2019 after the two 737 MAX crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia, which killed 346 people. Since then, the agency had been issuing the certificates itself, leading to slower deliveries. The 787 also faced production issues that halted deliveries in 2020 and 2021.

Potential Financial Impact

This decision is expected to accelerate deliveries of pending aircraft, improving Boeing's cash flow. However, the company still faces other regulatory challenges, including the ongoing safety review of the 737 MAX.