If you keep up with aviation news, you’ve probably noticed one Boeing aircraft getting more attention than others — and not for good reasons. The Boeing 737 Max series, particularly the Max 8 and Max 9, has been linked to multiple serious incidents and two major crashes in 2018 and 2019 that killed 346 people.
While these planes are flying again after a lengthy grounding and updates, many travelers still actively avoid booking flights on them.
Why the 737 Max Stands Out in Crash Records
The two most notable 737 Max crashes — Lion Air Flight 610 in Indonesia and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 — were traced to a malfunction in the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS), which could override pilot controls and push the plane’s nose down.
Investigations revealed that Boeing did not fully inform airlines, pilots, or even regulators about how powerful the system was, and design flaws were allowed through certification with insufficient oversight from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Then in January 2024, an Alaska Airlines Max 9 suffered a midair fuselage blowout. No one died, but the incident grounded 171 planes while inspections uncovered missing bolts and other quality-control problems. That shook public confidence again, especially since Boeing had already pledged to overhaul its safety culture.
Passenger Reactions and Airline Policies
Even with a reliability rate above 99%, many travelers have taken matters into their own hands. Some refuse to board any Max aircraft, while others will only avoid it if they can easily rebook.
Booking platforms like Kayak now have a filter that lets you remove Max 8 and Max 9 flights from search results, and some airlines have offered temporary waivers for passengers uncomfortable with the model.
If you want more control over your flight experience, you might consider packing a compact noise-canceling headset so you can block out preflight stress in case you need to wait for a rebooked departure.
How to Check the Aircraft Model Before You Fly
You can usually see the aircraft type when booking online. On airline websites, it’s often listed under “Details” or “Flight Information.” On third-party booking sites, scroll to the flight’s fine print. If you’ve already booked, check your reservation confirmation or search your flight number on FlightRadar24.
Keep in mind, last-minute aircraft swaps can still happen. Some passengers have only discovered they were on a Max after spotting the model on the safety card in the seat pocket. If this matters to you, speak to the gate agent before boarding. In rare cases, passengers have successfully switched flights even after boarding.
For long layovers caused by aircraft changes, having a lightweight carry-on backpack stocked with essentials can make the wait more manageable.
Other Boeing Models in the News
The recent Air India crash in Ahmedabad brought attention to another Boeing aircraft: the 787 Dreamliner. This was the first 787 crash since the model’s 2011 debut. The cause is still under investigation, but the 787 has faced engine problems and manufacturing delays in the past. Still, it has generally maintained a stronger safety record than the 737 Max.
That said, Boeing’s broader quality-control issues have some travelers choosing Airbus models when possible. While Airbus planes have had their own incidents, the company hasn’t faced the same concentrated string of high-profile safety concerns in recent years.
Should You Avoid Flying on a 737 Max?
Statistically, air travel remains one of the safest ways to get around, and millions of passengers fly safely on the Max every year. However, public opinion is mixed, and confidence levels remain lower than with other aircraft types. If you want to avoid the Max, book early, check the aircraft model during purchase, and verify it again closer to your departure.
Whether you choose to fly on the Max or not, being prepared is key. A portable power bank can be a lifesaver if a last-minute change keeps you in the terminal longer than expected.
