Boeing to release MCAS software update, pilot training following crash

Boeing issued the following statement regarding the releasetoday of the preliminary investigation report of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302by the Ethiopian Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB).

"I'd like to reiterate our deepest sympathies are withthe families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in theaccident," said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO KevinMcAllister. "We thank Ethiopia's Accident Investigation Bureau for itshard work and continuing efforts. Understanding the circumstances thatcontributed to this accident is critical to ensuring safe flight. We will carefullyreview the AIB's preliminary report, and will take any and all additional stepsnecessary to enhance the safety of our aircraft."

Boeing's technical experts continue to assist in thisinvestigation and company-wide teams are working to address lessons from theLion Air Flight 610 accident in October.

The preliminary report contains flight data recorder informationindicating the airplane had an erroneous angle of attack sensor input thatactivated the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS) functionduring the flight, as it had during the Lion Air 610 flight.

To ensure unintended MCAS activation will not occur again,Boeing has developed and is planning to release a software update to MCAS andan associated comprehensive pilot training and supplementary education programfor the 737 MAX.

As previously announced, the update adds additional layersof protection and will prevent erroneous data from causing MCAS activation.Flight crews will always have the ability to override MCAS and manually controlthe airplane.

Boeing continues to work with the U.S. Federal AviationAdministration and other regulatory agencies worldwide on the development andcertification of the software update and training program.

Boeing also is continuing to work closely with the U.S.National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) as technical advisors in support ofthe AIB investigation. As a party providing technical assistance under thedirection of investigating authorities, Boeing is prevented by internationalprotocol and NTSB regulations from disclosing any information relating to theinvestigation. In accordance with international protocol, information about theinvestigation is provided only by investigating authorities in charge.