© Reuters.
WASHINGTON – The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has mandated visual inspections of Boeing (NYSE:) 737-900ER aircraft, focusing on the mid-exit door plugs, in response to a recent cabin depressurization incident on an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9. This precautionary measure comes after the FAA identified a design similarity between the two aircraft models that could potentially lead to safety risks.
The FAA’s directive, issued on Sunday, requires carriers operating the 737-900ER variant to conduct thorough checks of the specified area. Following the directive, major airlines such as United and Alaska Airlines have already initiated the inspection process. As of today, these inspections have revealed bolt defects in some -900ER operators.
This emergency situation that prompted this action occurred on an Alaska Airlines flight, designated Flight 1282, which experienced a blow-out in Portland, Oregon. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is currently investigating the incident to determine the cause and any contributing factors.
These measures come as over 170 Max 9s remain grounded due to safety concerns. Amidst scrutiny over Boeing’s alleged non-compliance with regulations, Cirium data reveals a fleet of 490 active -900ERs flown by carriers such as Delta, Alaska, United, Turkish Airlines, and Korean Air. Notably, Lion Air’s -900ER fleet features a high-density configuration with emergency exits rather than the typical plugged doors.
This recent development underscores the FAA’s commitment to maintaining rigorous safety standards in the aviation industry. The inspections are part of a broader effort to ensure the continued airworthiness and safety of the commercial fleet.
InvestingPro Insights
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