EASA SD SD-2021-01R1: Boeing 737-8, 737-8200 and 737-9 (MAX) Aeroplanes — Return to Service

What to do

Operators must implement all elements of FAA AD 2020-24-02 or EASA AD 2021-0039 for Boeing 737-8 and 737-9 aircraft before conducting commercial flights under their TCO authorization. Pilots must complete the mandated return to service training, including simulator sessions, prior to operating these aircraft. Additionally, operators must not conduct RNP-AR approach operations with any affected Boeing 737 MAX models and must communicate this limitation to flight crews and operations staff.

Summary

EASA Safety Directive 2021-01R1 is a regulatory document addressing the return to service of Boeing 737-8, 737-8200, and 737-9 (MAX) aeroplanes. It mandates specific operational and training requirements for third country operators authorized by EASA to conduct commercial air transport operations with these aircraft models within the EU. The directive focuses on mitigating safety risks related to the Flight Control Computer software and the Manoeuvring Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS).

What changed

This revision of EASA Safety Directive 2021-01 adds the Boeing 737-8200 model to the applicability and imposes a limitation prohibiting Required Navigation Performance - Authorization Required (RNP-AR) approach operations for all affected MAX models. It also reinforces the requirement for operators to implement updated Flight Control Computer and Display Processing Computer software and to ensure pilots complete return to service training before operating these aircraft.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses safety concerns arising from previous fatal accidents involving Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. Compliance ensures that operators mitigate risks related to erroneous sensor inputs and MCAS activation, which could lead to loss of control. It also affects operational planning by restricting RNP-AR approaches and requires updated pilot training, impacting crew readiness and operational safety.