Boeing 737-8 MAX

Return to flight operations:

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), following a thorough and comprehensive review of the improvements to the Boeing 737 MAX, has authorised the return of a modified version of the aircraft to flight operations. According to the decision, after undergoing appropriate software and electrical upgrades, as well as crew training, the aircraft can take to the air again.

The review, which was conducted by EASA in cooperation with the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration), the lead certifying authority, and Boeing as the manufacturer, took a total of 20 months. It included EASA's own flight tests and simulator sessions. The results of the review led to a package of actions necessary to release the aircraft for air services as defined in the Airworthiness Directive:

• upgrade of flight control computer software, including MCAS;
• a software update to allow an alarm to be sounded in the event of a mismatch between two of the aircraft's angle of attack (AoA) sensors;
• physical separation of the cables leading from the cockpit to the stabiliser trim engine;
• update of the flight manual: operational limits and procedure improvement to ensure pilots have the necessary knowledge to understand and deal with any failure scenario;
• mandatory training for all 737 MAX pilots before resuming flights;
• update the pilots' initial and recurrent training;
• testing of systems, including the angle of attack (AoA) sensor system;
• implementation of an operational pre-flight without passengers prior to commercial use of each aircraft.

Additional Procedures at LOT:

At LOT we also decided to implement additional safety measures in the form of reliability flights prior to integrating the aircraft into the network. Flights were performed by two instructors and a mechanic. During the flights, an additional verification of all the aircraft's systems was made at the operational limits, including at 41,000 feet. That way we verified that all systems were working properly and responding to pilot commands. Each of our five aircraft has undergone such tests, lasting several hours. As a part of the effective preparation of LOT's staff for piloting the modified version of the B737 MAX, the training department has created an additional tool that contains a compendium of knowledge on the differences in the software and operational manual.

Intensive crew training:

All  B737 pilots received professional theoretical training describing all systems of the MAX aircraft. The next step was simulator training consisting of demonstrations and practical use of procedures on a B737 MAX simulator. All sessions were conducted by Boeing instructors under the supervision of our fleet instructors.

In accordance with our internal requirements, each pilot made several flights with an instructor, during which they practiced standard operational procedures. Additional training was also given to the Cabin Crew.

Information for passengers:

We understand that some of our passengers may expect alternative travel options. Please check your options:

Discover Boeing 737-8 MAX 

The 737 MAX makes use of the latest technological solutions in its engines, wings and meticulously designed cabin. We chose MAX because we care about the comfort of our guests.

The cabin of our MAX was created according to the unique Boeing Sky Interior concept, applied previously in Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. Its features include special soundproofing of the cabin, ergonomically shaped furnishings, eye-friendly lighting, as well as easily accessible and spacious luggage compartments. To make your flight comfortable, seats were designed in line with the current trends and results of the latest research. They now recline at an optimal angle. The headrests can be adjusted in four different ways. All seats are equipped with handy compartments and USB sockets to let you charge your mobile devices. The MAX cabin is not just comfortable. Equal emphasis was put on its aesthetics. Dynamic LED lighting enhances the beauty of the interior. The intensity of light can be adjusted according to need or time of day.

In MAX, the latest construction solutions have been combined with technology proven in Dreamliner aircraft. New engines are quieter and more efficient, giving MAX longer range and lower environmental impact. MAX has better aerodynamics than its predecessors. Thanks to their distinctive v-shaped winglets, the ultra advanced wings encounter less drag and have greater lift force. This is why MAX is more fuel-efficient and produces lower carbon emissions.

LOT has been using these aircrafts for over 25 years. The new generation will be equally reliable and durable, while more technologically advanced and environmentally friendly. MAX aircrafts also offer a higher level of comfort. Find this out for yourself and fly with us across Europe or choose a longer route, to the Middle East or Kazakhstan.