Originally Posted by
FrequentSLF
It might sound as a stupid question, but what would change columns forces other than a pitch up tendency?
Far from being stupid, this is exactly the question that points out the silliness of "It's merely stick forces we are dealing with" because with functioning synthetic feel the answer is: nothing.
Aerodynamically, MAX doesn't meet certification stability criteria.
MAX can't be fitted with certified stability augmentation and stall avoidance systems as it would invalidate grandfather rights and as a new design it just would not comply with the current rules even if pitch stability were not an issue.
The only way MAX will ever fly again is by severe reduction of certification requirements so the Boeing management's policy of admitting nothing and waiting for Deus ex machina rescue is quite sound.