(WBAP/KLIF) — The 737 MAX is scheduled to return to the skies next month. After a 20-month grounding following two deadly crashes, Boeing modified software and hardware on the plane. Now, American Airlines is set to fly the 737 MAX on December 29th between Miami and New York. Henry Harteveldt of Atmosphere Research Group says the manner in which the aircraft is re-introduced is key based on a study that showed nearly half of business travelers are concerned about flying on the aircraft.
The plane was grounded for nearly two years after after 346 people died in two separate crashes. However, veteran airline pilot Scott Shankland says he’s confident in the aircraft with the upgrades and improved training. Two North Texas airlines are banking that traveler confidence in the 737 MAX will return. Although about half of business travelers surveyed are leary of traveling on the aircraft, Harteveldt expects fears to fade once the aircraft hits the skies.
WFAA TV says American and Southwest airlines have invested heavily in the aircraft, with American carrying 24 MAX aircrafts in their fleet with another 76 on order from Boeing.
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