Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg addressed the recent incident involving a Boeing 737-9 Max aircraft operated by Alaska Airlines, emphasizing the importance of safety and caution in the return of the aircraft. Speaking at the Transportation Research Board’s annual meeting, Buttigieg stated that the timeline for the return of the aircraft will be determined solely by safety considerations. He commended the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for their diligent work in ensuring the safety of every plane delivered to airlines.
The incident, which occurred last week and led to an emergency landing in Portland, Oregon, resulted in the plane’s door panel being blown off at 16,000 feet. Despite the cabin’s depressurization, no serious injuries were reported among the passengers. The investigation into the incident is being conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), while the FAA has grounded all Boeing 737-9 Max aircraft with a plug door until they are deemed safe.
In a statement, the FAA emphasized that the safety of the flying public is their priority and that the timeline for the aircraft’s return will be determined by thorough inspections and maintenance procedures. Boeing is currently revising their instructions for operators based on feedback received, and the FAA will conduct a comprehensive review upon receiving the revised version.
Alaska Airlines and United are the only U.S. airlines operating Boeing 737-9 Max aircraft, with a combined total of 144 planes. Both airlines have canceled future flights on these aircraft and have reported findings of loose hardware during inspections.
The incident has highlighted the significance of maintaining the highest safety standards in the aviation industry. Buttigieg expressed his concern upon seeing images of the Alaska Airlines plane missing its door while in flight, further emphasizing the need for thorough inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety of all passengers.
As the investigation continues, the FAA and NTSB will work together to determine the cause of the incident and implement necessary measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
In conclusion, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has stressed the importance of prioritizing safety in the return of Boeing 737-9 Max aircraft. While the investigation into the recent incident is ongoing, the FAA has grounded all aircraft with a plug door until they are deemed safe. Boeing is revising their instructions for operators, and the FAA will conduct a thorough review before allowing the planes to resume operation. The incident serves as a reminder of the critical need for comprehensive inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety of the flying public.
