Portland, Oregon – The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an emergency directive on Saturday, grounding over 170 Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft for inspections. This decision came after a panel on one of the planes blew out during an Alaska Airlines flight. The directive affects approximately 171 planes globally, including those operated by U.S. airlines and carriers on U.S. territory.
No serious injuries were reported when Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 experienced a pressurization issue shortly after takeoff on Friday. The flight, which was en route to Ontario, California, promptly returned to Portland, Oregon. Social media images and videos depicted a significant hole in the side of the Boeing 737 Max 9 and passengers using oxygen masks.
Alaska Airlines announced the immediate grounding of its entire fleet of Boeing 737 Max 9 planes. Similarly, United Airlines, the largest operator of these planes in the U.S., prepared to ground dozens of its aircraft for inspections. United Airlines has nearly 80 of these planes in its fleet, although some have recently undergone comprehensive routine inspections.
According to federal safety officials, the FAA estimated that each inspection would require between four and eight hours per plane. The purpose of these inspections is to address potential safety concerns and ensure the continued airworthiness of the aircraft.
In conclusion, the FAA’s emergency directive to ground Boeing 737 Max 9 planes for inspections was prompted by a panel failure during an Alaska Airlines flight. Airlines worldwide, as well as those operating in the U.S., will be affected by the directive. Both Alaska Airlines and United Airlines have taken immediate action to ground their respective fleets of these aircraft. The inspections are aimed at maintaining the highest level of safety for passengers and addressing any potential issues.