Defer Boeing 737 MAX Recertification

Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, which experienced catastrophic crashes in 2017 and 2018, were grounded in March 2019 pending their recertification as being safe. Defective software correction is widely believed to offer the solution. However, the principle problem is not software, but vertical aerodynamic instability due to enlarged and forward-relocated engines of the Leading Edge Aviation Propulsion (LEAP) series. Already, nine months have passed without apparent Boeing work toward airframe modification, and at least several more such months are anticipated by FAA. This paper lists concerns indicating that recertification should be deferred pending physical redesign, to continue the tradition of passenger aircraft stability independent of software.