Can a name change save Boeing’s 737 MAX?
After months of crisis following the tragic crashes of two airplanes—potentially due to manufacturer malfeasance—some in the airline industry hope to revive its reputation.
The aircraft is still grounded worldwide as the manufacturer tries to solve a software issue.
Meanwhile, passengers have vowed never to set foot on another 737 Max. Pilots say their trust has been violated. A bevy of apologies have gone over like a ton of bricks with consumers.
So, why would airlines think a name change could smooth over all the issues with the troubled 737 aircraft?
The move has received scrutiny as news outlets have reported the potential rebranding in real time.
A Boeing 737 Max due to be delivered to Ryanair has had the name Max dropped from the livery, further fuelling speculation that the manufacturer and airlines will seek to rebrand the troubled plane.
Photos have emerged of a 737 Max in Ryanair colours outside Boeing’s manufacturing hub, with the designation 737-8200 – instead of 737 Max – on the nose. The 737-8200 is a type name for the aircraft that is used by aviation agencies.
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