Boeing’s 737 MAX jet will make its first public appearance with American Airlines following a 20-month ban over safety concerns. The planned flight with media on board from Dallas, Texas, to Tulsa, Oklahoma, comes weeks before the first commercial passenger flight on December 29, and is part of a PR effort to restore the jet’s image.

American Airlines CEO Doug Parker said on Instagram he had flown on the MAX with his wife and airline colleagues yesterday “with the utmost peace of mind”.

Boeing’s best-selling jet was grounded in March last year after two crashes in five months killed a total of 346 people, marking the industry’s worst safety crisis in decades. Last month, the US Federal Aviation Administration cleared the jet following design changes and new training.

Boeing has said that airlines will take a direct role in demonstrating to passengers that the 737 MAX is safe. “We are continuing to work closely with global regulators and our customers to safely return the fleet to commercial service,” a spokesman said.

Ryanair is also close to placing an order for dozens of additional Boeing 737 Max jets in a commercial boost, according to industry sources. Alaska Airlines last month agreed to lease 13 Boeing MAX jets.

Boeing shares were up around 2.5 per cent in late-morning trading.

FURTHER READING: Ryanair will not refund customers for booked November flights