In a recent statement, United Airlines revealed that its preliminary inspections of the grounded Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft have identified potential installation issues related to emergency exit door plugs. These findings, if confirmed, could spell trouble for Boeing and prolong the grounding of the Max 9 aircraft. This article delves into the details of the issue and examines the broader context of Boeing’s recent challenges.
Installation Issues and Remedies
United Airlines disclosed that the inspections revealed bolts requiring additional tightening, among other installation discrepancies. The airline assured that its tech ops team would address these problems to ensure the safe return of the aircraft to service. Such issues with emergency exit door plugs, especially if widespread, could further complicate matters for Boeing, already grappling with multiple quality-control concerns.
This setback adds to Boeing’s ongoing challenges, including recent cases of loose bolts. Following the discovery of a missing nut in the rudder control system during routine maintenance by an unnamed airline, Boeing, in consultation with the FAA, urged 737 Max operators to inspect the system for similar issues. Moreover, an undelivered 737 Max aircraft was found with a nut that had not been properly tightened. Although there have been no reported in-service incidents related to the rudder bolt issue, it highlights the broader quality-control problems that have plagued Boeing, particularly with its 737 Max family.
Boeing’s troubles with the 737 Max series began in 2019 when the smaller Max 8 aircraft was grounded globally for 20 months following two fatal crashes. Investigations revealed that a faulty sensor provided erroneous information to the planes’ automated flight-control system, leading to nosedives and the loss of 346 lives. Furthermore, Boeing faced delays in Max deliveries in April 2020 after discovering nonstandard manufacturing processes in fittings near the rear of several planes. Although deliveries eventually resumed in May, these incidents further tarnished Boeing’s reputation and raised concerns about the safety and quality of its aircraft.
Investigation by National Safety Transportation Board (NTSB)
To address the recent blowout incident involving an Alaska Airlines Max 9 aircraft, the NTSB initiated an investigation, with chair Jennifer Homendy disclosing that the process could take weeks. The NTSB is exploring potential correlations between the illuminated pressurization warning light and the door plug blowout on January 5. Alaska Airlines had imposed restrictions on flying the aircraft on lengthy overwater routes due to the recurring warning light incidents. However, it remains unclear if these events are directly linked to the door plug failure.
United Airlines’ Inspection Procedures
Following the FAA’s approval of the inspection procedure for grounded Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft, United Airlines has already made preparations to inspect its Max 9s. The inspection process involves removing the inner panel to access the door plug and conducting a visual examination of the surrounding area. Any discrepancies will be documented and corrected before the aircraft is deemed fit for service. Each inspection will be performed by a team of five United technicians, requiring several hours of work.
The installation issues with emergency exit door plugs discovered during United Airlines’ inspections represent another obstacle for Boeing. With the NTSB investigating the recent blowout incident and ongoing concerns about the safety and quality of the 737 Max series, the aircraft manufacturer faces an uphill battle in rebuilding trust and ensuring the reliability of its planes. As aviation authorities and airlines work together to address these issues, the industry eagerly awaits further developments and solutions that prioritize passenger safety.
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