Transport Canada has approved the changes made to Boeing Co.’s (NYSE:BA) 737 Max, paving the way for the aircraft to resume flying Canadian skies.
“This validation is an important first step in the eventual return to service of this aircraft in Canadian airspace,” Transport Canada said in a written news release. “However, the return to service is complex, and Transport Canada must put in place comprehensive safety plans that require additional aircraft changes, maintenance and training.”
Canada’s transportation regulator said it expects to issue an airworthiness directive in January, which will stipulate the required design changes that must be made before the 737 Max aircraft can officially return to flying in Canada.
In addition to making the modifications outlined in the directive, Transport Canada will require the incorporation of a revised pilot training program. The government agency also said that airlines must conduct maintenance to the jets since they have been in storage since being grounded following two fatal crashes in 2019.
“Validation of these changes means that these modifications can be incorporated on WestJet’s 737 Max aircraft,” a spokesperson for WestJet Airlines Ltd. said in a written statement. “Our Max aircraft will only return to service once all requirements are met or exceeded and we are certain they are safe and ready to return to active service in the WestJet fleet.”
U.S. regulators cleared the 737 Max to fully return to flying in November.