Safety concerns arise over Boeing 737 MAX engine vulnerabilities

Boeing's 737 MAX aircraft is facing ongoing challenges related to its CFM LEAP-1B engines. The engines, designed to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce noise, have a load-reduction mechanism that could potentially disrupt an oil line during deployment. This disruption may cause smoke to enter the cockpit or cabin, posing safety risks.

In response to these issues, Boeing has aligned with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) recommendations and is working on improvements in collaboration with airframers. Boeing has revised flight manuals for pilots to prevent smoke from entering the aircraft's interior after damage occurs. The NTSB also issued a safety bulletin recommending immediate software updates by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Consequently, Boeing and CFM International are developing new procedures and software updates to prevent oil leaks.

Production of the 737 MAX has been impacted by these concerns, with regulatory scrutiny leading to delays in manufacturing schedules. The FAA currently restricts production to 38 planes per month while monitoring quality control enhancements. Certification of new models like the MAX 7 and MAX 10 remains pending until necessary corrections are completed.