Voice of America
24 May 2019, 06:35 GMT+10
MONTREAL - U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) representatives told members of the United Nations' aviation agency they expect approval of Boeing Co's 737 MAX jets to fly in the United States as early as late June, three people with knowledge of the matter said, although there is no firm timetable for the move.
FAA and Boeing representatives briefed members of the International Civil Aviation Organization's (ICAO) governing council in Montreal Thursday on efforts to return the plane to service.
The three people spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the private briefing.
Grounded in March
The MAX was grounded worldwide in March following two crashes involving the model that killed a combined 346 people.
FAA officials who briefed the council said they expected the grounding to be lifted in the United States as early as late June, but it was not clear when other countries would clear the flights, two of the sources said.
Canada and Europe said Wednesday they would bring back the grounded aircraft on their own terms.
The FAA declined to comment Thursday, referring to acting administrator Dan Elwell's statement Wednesday that he does not have a timetable for making a decision.
"It's taking as long as it takes to be right," he said. "I'm not tied to a timetable."
Boeing did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Its shares pared earlier losses to close down 0.6% at $350.55.
UN agency clout
The ICAO gathering comes as the FAA is meeting with international air regulators in Texas to discuss what steps are needed to return the 737 MAX to service, while the International Air Transport Association (IATA) is hosting MAX airline operators from across the world in Montreal.
Montreal-based ICAO cannot impose binding rules on governments, but wields clout through its safety and security standards, which are approved by its 193 member states.
Get a daily dose of London Mercury news through our daily email, its complimentary and keeps you fully up to date with world and business news as well.
Publish news of your business, community or sports group, personnel appointments, major event and more by submitting a news release to London Mercury.
More InformationFormer Commerce City teacher charged with sexual assault on a minor
Collapsed wall at former Bar Bar closes Champa Street in downtown Denver
30-person brawl erupts early Sunday morning just east of Stampede grounds
Colorado DOC officer arrested in Fremont County for domestic violence
Barry Morphew in Alamos County jail on murder charge
Where to find free naloxone vending machines in Denver
NEW YORK, New York - Global stock indices closed with divergent performances on Tuesday, as investors weighed corporate earnings, central...
TORONTO, Canada: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced late on June 29 that trade negotiations with the U.S. have recommenced...
Vancouver, Canada: A high-stakes legal showdown is brewing in the world of athleisure. Lululemon, the Canadian brand known for its...
LONDON, U.K.: British oil giant Shell has denied reports that it is in talks to acquire rival oil company BP. The Wall Street Journal...
NEW YORK, New York - U.S. stock markets closed firmly in positive territory to start the week Monday, with the S&P 500 and Dow Jones...
WASHINGTON, D.C.: On Friday, President Donald Trump announced that he was halting trade discussions with Canada due to its decision...