The flight control system, known as MCAS, was "not an area of emphasis" because Boeing presented it to the FAA as a modification of the jet's existing speed trim system, with limited range and use, according to the report.

The test is a pivotal moment in Boeing's worst-ever corporate crisis, long since compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic that has slashed air travel and jet demand.

The problem is not related to the flight-control system that pushed planes into nosedives before two deadly Max crashes. But it is another blow to Boeing's safety reputation.

Hundreds of Boeing employees were told they're going to lose their jobs.

The plunge from about 14,000 feet couldn't be controlled and the plane crashed about six minutes after takeoff, killing all 157 people aboard, the report said.

A private commemoration at the site of the crash for family members of crash victims has been planned by Ethiopian Airlines and Boeing. Family members from the United States, Canada and other parts of the world are being flown to Addis Ababa at Boeing's expense for the memorial.

The lawyers, who are asking why the MAX continued flying after a Lion Air crash five months earlier, say the materials are critical for assessing liability by Boeing and punitive damages.

A Boeing official said the debris was discovered in “several” planes but did not give a precise number.

Singapore's Health Ministry has confirmed 50 cases of the virus. The bank employee, a 62-year-old man, was the most recent case.

Boeing disclosed the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) investigation in a regulatory filing Friday.