We are beginning to discover that there is more to the Boeing B 737 MAX controversy than was originally believed. I say believed because, now, it is known that many facets of the development were not known by all concerned … and, even at the time of writing, new aspects are coming into focus.
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| Grounded Southwest Boeing 737 MAX in California |
Boeing has always believed that Airbus was a thorn in its’ side, ever since the European consortium was created. Therefore, it is essential that we start this very brief blog with an Airbus introduction, as it relates to the subject.
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| Grounded Boeing 737 MAX at remote location |
Noting the success of the Boeing 737. it goes without saying that the Airbus A320 family was designed in direct competition to the Boeing 737. Specifically, the A320neo (New Engine Option) and the Boeing 737 MAX derived from the 737NG (Next Generation) in 2010 (Into service in 2016). That, Airbus was able to get a ‘jumpstart’ on Boeing with a innovative, very successful, propfan technology engine for a modern airframe, caused Boeing to rush into developing a new version of their own, the Boeing 737 MAX (Into service in 2017 … an amazingly short design period). This was going to open a Pandora’s box … to say the least.
In order to fit the large CFB LEAP-!B engines, it was necessary to modify the original attachments further forward on the wing due to the increased height required above the ground (Not required for the newer A320neo). This, no doubt affecting the CG (Centre of Gravity) and writing new software related to AOA (Angle of Attack) signals. The wing roots also required strengthening with fork-shaped metal plates (These, recently, have cracks reported). Notwithstanding, the mixed messages between the FAA and Boeing, the lack of communication between test pilots and design engineers, and the apparent belief that maintenance manuals do not need to have every piece of information, we can only hope that the human race will soon grow wings.
It has been reported that Boeing is studying a new design to replace the Boeing 737 family all together based on a composite design used in the ‘Dreamliner’ aircraft. The least said about that problem-plagued aircraft the better, I believe.
Hopefully, you will enhance this brief blog with your additional wisdom.
Now, it should be noted that Boeing B737 aircraft are becoming subject to advanced wing pickle fork cracks. It doesn't rain unless it pours (as they say).
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