Both Airlines Say The Planes Will Remain On The Ground Through At Least Early November

Two U.S. carriers operating the Boeing 737 MAX have extended cancellations of flights using the airplane through at least early November, according to the airlines.

American Airlines released a statement indicated that it remains confident that impending software updates to the Boeing 737 MAX, along with the new training elements Boeing is developing in coordination with the airline's union partners, will lead to recertification of the aircraft this year. "We are in continuous contact with the FAA, DOT, the NTSB and other regulatory authorities," the airline said.

However, "American is extending cancellations for the MAX through Nov. 2. By doing so, our customers and team members can more reliably plan their upcoming travel on American. In total, approximately 115 flights per day will be canceled through Nov. 2.

"Our Reservations and Sales teams will continue to work closely with customers who are impacted by these cancellations."

Similarly, United Airlines has announced that it will not put the 737 MAX back into revenue service before November 3, leading to 2,100 cancellations in September and 2,900 in October, according to CNBC.

The carrier has 14 737 MAX aircraft in its fleet. The airline said in a statement that is is "continuing to work through the schedule to try and swap and upgauge aircraft to mitigate the disruption caused by the grounding of the MAX.

"We continue to automatically book affected customers on alternate flights. If we are unable to place them on a different flight, we will proactively reach out to try and offer other options."

Southwest, the third U.S. carrier flying the 737 MAX, said June 27th that it was extending its cancellations of flights using the airplane through October 1.

(Images from file)

FMI: www.aa.com
www.united.com
www.southwest.com
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