Boeing has formally requested an exemption from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regarding the Stall Management and Yaw Damper (SMYD) system on its 737 MAX 7 and 737 MAX 10 models. This exemption is part of Boeing’s effort to address certain regulatory issues as it works to certify these aircraft. The company has argued that the SMYD system, a key safety feature on the 737 MAX family of aircraft, does not comply with specific provisions under two sections of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). These provisions relate to the design and performance standards for stall prevention and management systems.
The exemption request comes as part of a broader certification project, which includes the enhanced angle of attack (EAOA) certification process that Boeing is working on for all 737 MAX variants, including the 737 MAX 8 and 737 MAX 9. The project aims to ensure that the 737 MAX family meets or exceeds all safety standards required by the FAA. However, Boeing’s submission highlights that while the 737 MAX 7 and MAX 10 are included in the EAOA certification program, they are not fully compliant with the CFR sections that govern the SMYD system’s operation. The company’s position is that despite this non-compliance, the 737 MAX 7 and 737 MAX 10 still meet all necessary safety criteria, and their overall design ensures safe operation for both passengers and crew.Boeing’s request centers around the idea that while the current design of the 737 MAX 7 and 737 MAX 10 may not fully adhere to these regulatory sections, it still offers sufficient safety features that make the exemption justifiable. The company has stressed that the systems in place, including the enhanced angle of attack protections and other safety technologies, mitigate any potential risks associated with the aircraft’s operation. Boeing is hopeful that the FAA will grant the exemption, allowing it to move forward with the certification of these models.As of now, the FAA has not made a decision on Boeing’s request, and the agency will likely conduct a thorough review before making any determinations. The outcome of this exemption request could play a crucial role in determining the timeline for the certification and delivery of the 737 MAX 7 and MAX 10, which are important models in Boeing’s 737 MAX family lineup. The aviation industry is closely watching the situation, as any delays in certification could impact airline fleets and schedules.