After more than three years, the Boeing 737 MAX is nearing the return of its commercial activity in Chinese territory: on the morning of Sunday, October 16, it was observed that China Southern began preparation work on at least three of its 737-8s.
As reported by FAT III Aviation via its Twitter account, the aircraft with registration B-1206, 1207 and 1127 were taken out of preservation and cleaned, while teams of mechanics and engineers were seen working on them.
China #737MAX update:
3 of China Southern’s 737 MAX parked at CAN, namely B-1206/1207/1127 has been “unsealed” and cleaned.Mechanics & engineers had been spotted working on those jets.
Seems like we are moving closer to 1st commercial flight since the grounding. pic.twitter.com/IRjTaKPp4V
— FATIII Aviation (@FATIIIAviation) October 16, 2022
A few days ago, a MIAT 737-8 flew over Chinese airspace and landed in Guangzhou, in what was the first commercial operation in the CAAC’s area of interest since March 2019.
There was speculation that the recertification of the 737 MAX by the Chinese aviation authority would occur after the certification of the COMAC C919, which was completed on September 29. While there is still no official confirmation that the administrative act will happen soon, China Southern’s move seems to be a hint that the return to commercial activity is not only possible but expected.
