Problems continue for Boeing (NYSE: BA) following an incident with Alaska Airlines earlier this month where a Boeing 737 Max 9 saw part of its fuselage blow out midflight.
The Federal Aviation Administration this morning his disclosed that it will be investigating the manufacturing processes and production lines of Boeing, as well as those of Spirit AeroSystems, a subcontractor of Boeing. The authority will also be examining potential system change and its oversight of the aircraft manufacturer as well.
The decision follows United Airlines and Alaska Airlines last week indicating that they had found loose bolts on other Boeing 737-9 MAX aircraft following an inspection of all such aircraft. The FAA had grounded all planes of that model and ordered inspections following the Alaska Airlines incident.
READ: Boeing Has A MAX 9 Problem: United and Alaska Report Loose Bolts
The FAA is now investigating Boeing’s manufacturing practices and production lines, including those involving subcontractor Spirit AeroSystems, bolstering its oversight of Boeing, and examining potential system change. pic.twitter.com/fXQlJSdGVu
— The FAA ✈️ (@FAANews) January 17, 2024
The agency also indicated that once an inspection and maintenance process is approved for 737-9 MAX aircraft, all every grounded plane of that model will be required to conduct the process before being granted approval to return to service.
“The safety of the flying public, not speed, will determine the timeline for returning these aircraft to service,” the agency concluded.
Information for this story was found via the Federal Aviation Administration, and the sources and companies mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to the organizations discussed. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.