Originally Posted by
twistedenginestarter 
I was trained to fly over 50 years ago. That involved the Trident. It had a yaw damper - a computer system to counter the basic instability of the aeroplane. Aircraft that require computers are nothing new.
Yes indeed Twisted! But there is a massive difference between " needing" an augmentation system like a yaw damper or even MCAS (see below) , and having one to improve the handling. Yaw dampers and Stick pushers and perhaps even MCAS and things like that are usually put in to make the plane fly better in certain situations, but they are often not required for flight. To find out your consult the MEL (Min Equipment List) for the plane and see if it is allowed or not.
There are literally hundreds of systems and items on every plane that you are allowed to fly without depending on circumstances.
On most Boeings the yaw damper is fitted but not required. Even the 707 right up to the 747. You can dispatch with no yaw damper and continue to fly if it fails in flight. It just makes flying a bit easier if is working.
Don't know if MCAS is permitted by then 737-MAX MEL/DDM (permitted dispatch items) and that will come out. I wouldn't be surprised if it is permitted to be unserviceable at dispatch (prior to flight) if it is considered an enhancement rather than essential.
Can any MAX pilot out t here state whether the MEL covers MCAS please?
Yanrair