The issue is that Boeing knowingly signed the plane off without full details of the software being explained to the FAA. The FAA did not independently test and approve this feature, but took Boeing's word it was safe.

Boeing knew there was a possibly hazardous trim activation function (requiring pilots to react in less than 2 seconds!) but signed it off anyway. Not in line with their claims that "Safety is our number one priority".

>>Boeing chief exec given his P45:

It was a P52 apparently

Pay off $52 million

Boeing sold the plane as an upgrade to the previous model(s) - it was not an face lift type upgrade it was new plane, new engines, new wings, new control systems, lack of testing pre-delivery to airlines etc and they wanted to avoid the L O N G and costly certification, training internally at Boeing & all airline staff............. megabucks saved by cutting corners -

A bit like BP cutting corners & saving money until the Gulf blowout that cost BP £62Bn in damages and killed 17.

VW are facing similar costs - currently at about £30Bn but they are still fighting on many fronts in many countries against paying out in the deisel gate scandal. Losing case after case but refusing to accept the obvious.

Here is a link to the Congressional report blaming Boeing and the FAA : confirms what was suspected.

tinyurl.com/y57x2gkm