The 737 MAX 8 has heavier and more fuel-efficient engines than prior editions of the 737, a change which causes the aircraft to pitch upwards ever-so-slightly after takeoff. Ultimately, the Lion Air 737 pitched itself forward 26 times before pilots ultimately lost control. The worldwide grounding of the 737 MAX 8 is different than prior aircraft groundings. Not only are 737 MAX 8s crashing within weeks of leaving the factory, but signs point to them having no obvious material defects. But in the case of the 737 MAX 8, the likely problem exists only in the aircraft’s programming, raising concerns of the perils of over-automation.

Source: National Post March 14, 2019 19:53 UTC