Pilots shut down Boeing 737 MAX engine due to ‘mechanical issue’, FAA to investigate

Pilots of an American Airlines Boeing 737 MAX jet had to shut down its engines during the journey due to ‘mechanical issues’ as the aircraft flew from Miami to New Jersey, the US air safety regulator said. 

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in a statement said, “pilots reported shutting down an engine in flight”. The plane was able to taxi itself to the gate on its own power. 

Also Read: US, EU announce the suspension of retaliatory Airbus, Boeing dispute tariffs

FAA will be investigating the matter, reported AFP. 

The MAX returned to the skies in the US in late 2020 following its worldwide grounding in March 2019 after two deadly crashes.

There was an issue with the engine oil pressure and not the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System(MCAS), the faulty flight handling system. The MCAS was at fault in a crash that killed 346 people.

Also Read: US regulator must improve inspections after Boeing 737 MAX crashes: Reports

American Airlines said, “All customers deplaned normally, with no reported injuries to passengers or crew.”

Initially, the 737 MAX aircraft was an immediate hit with airlines and became Boeing’s fastest-selling aircraft until its grounding. Boeing was forced to revamp and implement new pilot training protocols post this. 

The grounding pushed the company into crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic worsened the situation due to decreased travel causing many airlines to cancel hundreds of orders for the aircraft.