Boeing is an American-based aerospace manufacturer with a history dating back to the early 1900s. Boeing supplies passenger airplanes to airliners in over 150 countries across the world. Despite Boeing’s long history in the aerospace business, the last several years have seen an alarming number of serious plane wrecks. These plane crash have left hundreds dead and more injured.
If you have been seriously injured in a Boeing plane crash or a family member was killed, we are here to help you recover fair and just compensation for your losses. We have represented victims of plane wrecks across the country and around the world. Contact us today for a free consultation.
The Boeing 737 Max-8 Timeline
Since 2018, the Boeing 737 Max-8 has been the center of multiple plane wrecks.
The Boeing 737 Max-8 timeline:
- Announced in 2011
- Took first flight in 2017
- On October 29, 2018, the Boeing 737 Max 8, owned by Lion Air, took off from Jakarta, Indonesia, with 189 passengers on board and crashed into the sea minutes after takeoff.
- On March 10, 2019, the Boeing 737 Max 8, owned by Ethiopian Air, took off from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with 157 passengers on board, crashing shortly after takeoff.
- On March 12, 2019, the Boeing 737 Max-8 was grounded for further investigation.
- On November 18th, 2020, the Max-8 resumed service and was deemed safe by authorities.
One of the critical issues in recent Boeing accidents has been software malfunctions. The 737 Max’s MCAS (Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System) software was designed to prevent the aircraft from stalling. However, faulty sensor data led to incorrect activation of this system, causing the planes to nose-dive. Boeing did not provide adequate training materials to pilots to address this issue. Pilots were simply provided a short training video (lasting from 56 minutes to three hours) to watch before being allowed to fly the Max 8. The lack of training left even highly experienced pilots unprepared to handle emergency situations.
Boeing Issues in 2024
In 2024, there have been several Boeing airplane accidents. The problems we are seeing now are not attributed to just one model of the manufacturer’s fleet. The FAA announced in May 2024 that it was ordering a “temporary grounding of certain Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft operated by U.S. airlines” after the planes experienced several issues worldwide.
Chronological Boeing Accidents in 2024:
- January 5: A Boeing 737 MAX-9 operated by Alaska Airlines flying to Ontario, California, was forced to make an emergency landing at Portland International Airport after a portion of its fuselage ripped off.
- January 13: A Boeing 737-800 operated by Japan’s All Nippon Airways was forced to cancel its takeoff on January 13 after a window in the cockpit cracked.
- January 17: Secretary of State Antony Blinken was scheduled to travel on a Boeing 737 from Switzerland but was forced to board a different plane after an issue relating to a possible oxygen leak.
- January 19: A Boeing 747 operated by Atlas Air was reported to have an engine failure. The flight was headed to Puerto Rico but returned safely to Miami.
- January 20: A Boeing 757 operated by Delta Airlines lost a wheel during an attempted takeoff.
- February 6: United Airlines flight number 1536 was bound for the Bahamas after departing New Jersey. Upon landing, it was reported to have experienced stuck rubber pedals, prompting a probe from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
- March 7: A United Boeing 777-200 bound from California to Japan was forced to reroute to Los Angeles immediately after takeoff after one of its wheels fell off. No one was injured, but a car was damaged by the wheel.
- March 11: A Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner bound from Australia to New Zealand experienced a mid-flight technical issue that resulted in the craft dropping mid-flight, injuring 50 people on board.
- March 13: A Boeing 777-300 bound from Australia to California was forced to turn around and land where it started after a fuel leak was reported after takeoff.
- March 15: A Boeing 737-800 bound from California to Oregon arrived with an exterior panel missing, having seemingly fallen off during the flight.
- March 22: A Southwest 737-800 flight returned to Fort Lauderdale airport after the crew reported an engine issue.
- April 5: A pilot on a Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 abandoned take-off at Texas Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport after a flame shot out of an engine. Just a few hours later, an All-Nippon Airways Boeing 787 reported an oil leak on arrival at Naha Airport, Japan.
What Are Boeing Officials Doing About the Reported Airplane Issues?
Boeing officials have been under immense pressure to address these ongoing safety concerns. The company has taken several steps to rectify the situation, including overhauling its safety protocols, improving pilot training programs, and enhancing maintenance procedures. Boeing’s CEO has publicly committed to restoring the company’s reputation by prioritizing safety over profit.
New Safety Measures:
- Enhanced Pilot Training: Boeing has introduced more comprehensive training programs that include simulator sessions and detailed instructions on handling emergency situations.
- Regular Maintenance Checks: Increased frequency and rigor of maintenance checks on all aircraft models to ensure early detection and resolution of potential issues.
- Independent Safety Reviews: Boeing has invited independent safety experts to review and audit their safety protocols and operational practices.
Boeing has long been considered a pioneer in the aerospace industry, with a reputation for innovation and reliability. However, the recent spate of accidents has tarnished this image.
Contact The Personal Injury & Accident Attorneys at The Ammons Law Firm
Boeing’s recent history has been marred by a series of accidents that highlight significant issues in its safety protocols, engineering practices, and software systems. While the company has taken steps to address these problems, the frequency and severity of the incidents raise serious concerns. It remains to be seen whether Boeing can fully restore its reputation and ensure the safety of its aircraft in the long term.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a Boeing airplane accident, you may be entitled to compensation. The Ammons Law Firm has substantial experience in plane accident lawsuits and is dedicated to helping victims seek justice. Contact the Ammons Law Firm today to discuss your case and learn about your legal options.
