Transport Canada has successfully completed its series of flight tests for the Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft. Over the last week, the aviation authority became the first entity not based in the United States to begin testing the type in the air following its grounding.
A busy week
According to a press release seen by Simple Flying, between August 23rd and 25th, Transport Canada’s flight test crew were flown to Boeing’s facility in Seattle, Washington, to conduct evaluations on the engineering simulator. At the end of each testing session, they were flown back to Vancouver.
Following these events, crew performed flight test evaluations of the 737 MAX between August 26th and 27th in US airspace. Authorities also highlight that there was extra caution in order to adhere to safety measures amid the global health crisis.
Currently, Canadian aviation authorities are analyzing the results of these tests. Through their own independent review, they will determine whether to validate the proposed changes.
Furthermore, after the completion of its evaluation this fall, Transport Canada will participate in a Joint Operational Evaluation Board. This group includes representatives from global certification authorities. Altogether, the results of the board will help to establish the minimum training requirements necessary for the 737 MAX 8’s return to service.
Working together
Canada’s Minister of Transport, Marc Garneau, spoke about this week’s progress. He said that the government remains committed to keeping its residents, the traveling public, and the transportation system safe and secure.
“Transport Canada continues to work extensively with the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and civil aviation authorities in Europe and Brazil throughout the validation process of the Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft,” Garneau said, as per the government of Canada’s statement.
“Transport Canada will not lift the flight restrictions on the Boeing 737 MAX 8 until the department is fully satisfied that all safety concerns have been addressed by the manufacturer and the FAA, and that enhanced flight crew procedures and training are in place.”
Looking forward
These steps play a significant part in the progress of the 737 MAX’s return to the skies. The type has been on the ground since March 2019 following two fatal accidents. After intense scrutiny, it looks like the plane could soon be ready for action.
Notably, three key Canadian carriers hold units of the type. Air Canada, WestJet, and Sunwing Airlines all have the jet in their fleet. However, it’s not just Canadian airlines that will be keeping an eye on this progress. Transport Canada’s approval will impact any operator looking to fly the 737 MAX in the country.
What are your thoughts about Canada’s Boeing 737 MAX validation tests? What do you make of the aircraft’s testing process so far? Let us know what you think of the situation in the comment section.
