Thread by @willripleyCNN

#breaking Preliminary report obtained by @OrenCNN on the Ethiopian Airlines 737 MAX accident that killed all 157 on board, shows significant similarities to the Lion Air accident, with the plane’s computer system pushing the nose down four times into a steep 40-degree dive.

Report paints a graphic picture of the flight’s final minutes as the two pilots tried in vain to end the dive together. One key difference between the accidents: Ethiopian pilots correctly diagnosed the issue and effectively disabled the MCAS system about 3 min before the crash

The report does not specifically name the 737 MAX’s MCAS stabilization system, but makes it likely the MCAS system pushed the plane into a dive fueled by erroneous angle of attack sensor readings. Boeing is currently working on a change to the system’s software.

About five minutes after takeoff, air traffic controllers granted the pilots’ request to return to the airport. The last input recorded by the flight data recorder: The plane reaching 500 knots. Absolutely horrifying to imagine those final minutes for the passengers & crew.