FAA’s decision to allow the Boeing 737 MAX back into the air could be based at least in part on input from foreign regulators, though consensus will not be necessary for the US agency to move forward, FAA acting administrator Dan Elwell said.

Boeing 737 MAX operators still do not know when they will be cleared to put their aircraft back in service, but one thing is certain: Getting the 370-aircraft fleet flying presents a significant logistical undertaking for the airlines, suppliers and the manufacturer.

European pilots are asking for clarity and an overhaul of a certification process they described as flawed, as regulators meet in the US to discuss a possible return to service for the grounded Boeing 737 MAX.

FAA, leveraging similar requirements issued more than a decade ago for the Boeing 787, has issued special conditions Boeing must follow to demonstrate the 777-9’s composite fuel tanks can withstand tire debris impact.

Leading small unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) manufacturer DJI has committed to installing surveillance receivers on new models weighing more than 250 grams by 2020, a safety measure intended to make drone pilots aware of nearby manned aircraft transmitting their position.

Aircraft Briefs-May 22, 2019

Two more Chinese carriers—Air China and China Southern Airlines—have formally filed for compensation from Boeing over the grounding of the 737 MAX 8, joining China Eastern Airlines, which reportedly filed a claim May 21.

Boeing’s reimbursements to airlines for 737 MAX-related service disruptions will approach $1.4 billion, assuming the grounded fleet is back in service by October, according to Bloomberg analysts.