It was a software error that was behind the fatal plane crash of a Boeing 737 Max 8 in Ethiopia, writes the Wall Street Journal, citing sources with insight into the accident investigation.

The preliminary conclusion, based on information from the accident plane's so-called black boxes, indicates that the automated control system Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS) has failed. Data from the plane crash with the same aircraft type in Indonesia last year has also been reviewed.

The emergency system, which is part of the plane's control system, steps in and takes over control when it receives signals that the plane is too slow and if the pilots do not acknowledge, that is, follow the checklist provided. The emergency system then automatically lowers the plane's nose so that the aircraft sinks and the speed increases.

A total of 346 people lost their lives in the two plane crashes.

The 737 Max 8 aircraft model has been grounded almost worldwide following the accident in Ethiopia. Accident investigation boards are investigating the cause of both incidents.

Source: TT