On October 30, 2019, the eyes of the aviation world will be turned on a panel in the United States House of Representatives. Boeing's CEO, Dennis Muilenburg, will testify on the Boeing 737 MAX in front of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.

This event is significant as it marks CEO Muilenburg's first public hearing since the worldwide grounding of the type. And, after months of intense public and regulatory scrutiny, this could be Boeing's chance to change the narrative.

Boeing's CEO to testify in front of Congress

CNBC is reporting that CEO Muilenburg will take to the stand on October 30th, 2019. Since March, multiple regulatory agencies have scrutinized the aircraft. And, this committee has held several other hearings on the Boeing 737 MAX over the past few months, in regard to various problems from the MCAS system, autopilot issues, and simulator flaws.

Amid all this, the 737 MAX is still grounded. Regulatory agencies are still examining the aircraft and the timeline is unclear, although Boeing and airlines definitely would rather see the aircraft flying again sooner rather than later. Although, a simultaneous worldwide lift of the ban may be delayed as other regulatory agencies conduct their own review of the aircraft.

Boeing 737 MAX
Airlines and Boeing would like to see the 737 MAX return to service sooner rather than later. Photo: Boeing

For Boeing, the hearing in front of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure could be a turning point in the fate of the MAX. In a perfect situation for Boeing, CEO Muilenburg's testimony will help restore public confidence in the aircraft while also displaying Boeing's capability to handle the crisis well.

CEO Dennis Muilenberg Congressional Testimony
Boeing's CEO, Dennis Muilenburg, could offer testimony that encourages shareholders, passengers, and airlines alike. Photo: Boeing

Boeing doubles down on the 737 MAX

Boeing has shown zero indication of abandoning the 737 MAX. As their best-selling aircraft, it is clear that the American manufacturer is not giving up hope on their iconic narrowbody. Although some airlines have hinted at a rebrand (while others specifically indicated they would not), Boeing has not officially rebranded the aircraft.

MAX Landing
Boeing is not ready to give up on their 737 MAX. Photo: Boeing

Not only will Boeing's CEO testify, but also Boeing's chief engineer for commercial airplanes, John Hamilton, and Jennifer Henderson, the chief 737 pilot. All three testimonies will likely be similar and reinforce Boeing's capability to handle the crisis and their confidence in the aircraft. Although, the FAA and worldwide regulatory agencies will be the ultimate judge of that.

737 MAX
The fate of the 737 MAX rests in the hands of regulatory agencies. Photo: Boeing

What do you think Boeing's CEO should do? Will you watch this testimony? Let us know in the comments!

Simple Flying reached out to Boeing for comment, however, Boeing did not respond in time for publication. This article will be updated if Boeing responds.