Boeing, the US-based aircraft manufacturer, has encountered significant challenges following a comprehensive audit conducted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) into its Boeing 737 Max-9 aircraft. The FAA’s investigation was triggered earlier this year after a door from an Alaska Airlines 737 Max dislodged mid-flight, forcing the aircraft to return to Portland International Airport, its point of departure.
Out of 89 audits performed, Boeing did not meet the standards in 33 instances, though it passed in 56 of them. Jessica Kowal, a Boeing spokesperson, emphasized the company’s commitment to enacting immediate improvements and formulating an extensive action plan to enhance safety, quality, and restore confidence among customers and passengers alike.
Additionally, the FAA carried out 13 product-specific audits focusing on Spirit AeroSystems, which manufactures fuselages for the 737 Max. Of these, seven audits did not meet the FAA’s criteria, while six were successful. Both Boeing and Spirit AeroSystems are currently under intense scrutiny by the FAA, particularly regarding the failure of door plugs on the Max-9.
The audits revealed issues in the installation of door plugs by Spirit AeroSystems, as well as multiple problems with the door plug components themselves. Similar deficiencies were noted in Boeing’s audit related to the Max-9’s door plug.
In light of these findings, both Alaska Airlines and United Airlines reported discovering loose hardware on the door plugs of several grounded Max 9 aircraft, attributed to issues with the installation of these components. “Since initiating preliminary inspections on Saturday, we’ve identified several instances that seem linked to the door plug’s installation, such as bolts requiring further tightening,” stated United Airlines.
Despite these setbacks, Alaska Airlines maintains a positive outlook regarding the ongoing investigations. “We are confident in the maintenance and safety measures undertaken prior to the incident. We are eager to continue our involvement in a thorough investigation led by the NTSB to prevent such occurrences in the future,” the airline affirmed.
The incident involving the dislodged door plug from the Alaska Airlines 737 Max led to its discovery in a Portland residence’s backyard, highlighting the serious safety concerns raised by these findings.
