Spicejet and the Boeing 737 MAX 8: Grounded for Safety or Forever on the Ground?
India has banned the Boeing 737 MAX 8 following the tragic crash of an Ethiopian Airlines plane. This decision has sparked debate, with Spicejet being the sole Indian airline operating the Boeing 737 MAX 8. Should Spicejet cancel the aircrafts? This article explores the current situation and the possible future implications.
Global Grounding and Safety Concerns
Every nation operating the Boeing 737 MAX 8 has ceased flying these aircraft due to safety concerns, particularly the MCAS (Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System) issue. Even Boeing, the manufacturer, has acknowledged these safety risks and recommended grounding the aircraft. Jet Airways, another major Indian airline, also operates the B737Max, but like Spicejet, both airlines have grounded the aircraft as per the direction of the DGCA (Civil Aviation Authority of India).
Future of the Boeing 737 MAX 8
Both Spicejet and Jet Airways have placed future orders for the Boeing 737 MAX 8. With around 350 advanced orders for India and approximately 5000 globally, it is highly probable that Boeing will introduce corrective measures soon. Until then, airlines like these two can either lease NG (Next Generation) aircraft or seek compensation from Boeing for the loss period while awaiting software updates.
Considering the long-term implications, cancelling the orders would not be the wisest decision. The 737 MAX series is likely to become a popular and best-selling product in the future, with older Next Generation series gradually phasing out. This makes retaining the option of these aircrafts essential in the competitive aviation market.
Grounding as a Measure of Safety
Spicejet and Jet Airways have grounded the aircrafts as directed by the DGCA. For now, these planes are sitting on the ground and not flying commercial flights. While this measure ensures immediate safety, it raises questions about their long-term financial and operational impact.
Grounding an aircraft for a specific issue does not necessarily mean it will go defunct. However, if the issue persists and cannot be resolved through software updates, it becomes a significant question. The DGCA will need to thoroughly inspect the aircraft and verify if the issue has been adequately addressed before allowing them to fly again.
Conclusion
The decision to ground the Boeing 737 MAX 8 is primarily a safety measure. However, airlines need to carefully balance safety with operational and financial considerations. For Spicejet and Jet Airways, the decision to ground these aircrafts is currently necessary, but any long-term strategy should involve a risk assessment and a contingency plan for both immediate and future challenges.
Given the current landscape and the safety implications, it is advisable to continue grounding the aircrafts until adequate measures are in place. By the time the issues are resolved, the 737 MAX 8 may once again become the preferred choice for many airlines, and keeping the option open is crucial.