My question is this:
Have unmodified aircraft been flying, and if so, why have they been grounded at this particular time? Is there an engineering reason, or a political reason?
I have the greatest respect for those who fly in these airframes, based on past experience and especially since the XV230 tragedy. However, as we all know, there have been many failings identified in airframe and equipment procurement and maintenance which have led directly to the loss of lives. Hence the widespread cynicism and distrust.