The Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) has voiced strong opposition to Boeing’s request for a regulatory exemption concerning the stall-management yaw damper (SMYD) on its 737 Max 7 and Max 10 aircraft. The exemption, if granted, would allow Boeing to bypass certain certification requirements for the SMYD system, a crucial component that aids in stabilizing the aircraft during flight.
Boeing has defended its request, maintaining that the SMYD system is well proven and does not pose any safety risks. The company argues that the system has a long track record of reliable performance on earlier 737 models and that the exemption would not compromise the aircraft’s operational safety. However, ALPA, which represents thousands of airline pilots, has pushed back, emphasizing the need for full regulatory compliance to ensure the highest levels of safety.
The pilots’ union contends that any exemptions from safety standards, particularly on the 737 Max series—an aircraft family that has faced significant scrutiny following two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019—should not be granted without extensive validation. ALPA has urged the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to reject Boeing’s request and require the company to meet all necessary safety and certification standards before the aircraft can enter service.
The debate over the exemption comes at a time when Boeing is seeking final approvals for the Max 7 and Max 10 variants, which have faced delays due to regulatory reviews and certification hurdles. While Boeing continues to work with regulators to bring these models to market, opposition from ALPA underscores the heightened focus on safety in the aftermath of the 737 Max crisis.
The FAA has not yet made a final decision on the exemption request. However, given ALPA’s strong stance and the broader concerns surrounding the 737 Max program, the agency is expected to conduct a thorough review before reaching a conclusion.