Boeing faces an escalating crisis with its 737 Max 9 aircraft as both United Airlines and Alaska Airlines discover loose parts on multiple grounded planes.
The discovery comes after the grounding of 171 Max 9 planes due to a cabin panel incident on an Alaska Airlines flight.
Alaska Airlines reports initial findings of “loose hardware,” awaiting formal inspections pending documentation from Boeing and the FAA. United Airlines, conducting preliminary checks, identifies bolts requiring tightening on several panels.
The disclosures raise concerns about the production process of the grounded Max 9 jets, prompting ongoing discussions on inspection guidelines between Boeing, the FAA, and the airlines. Boeing plans to revise guidelines and assist with inspections, emphasizing commitment to safety.
Prolonged concerns may impact Boeing, already grappling with production issues since the 737 Max family’s 20-month grounding in 2019. Analysts highlight the significance of the issue as a fleet-wide quality control problem.
Investigations into the cause are ongoing, and the FAA refrains from commenting on the loose bolt reports.
Boeing and Spirit AeroSystems, the supplier, experience stock declines.
The FAA mandates enhanced inspections before lifting the grounding, potentially disrupting flights.
The incident adds complexity to the ongoing challenges facing Boeing’s flagship aircraft.
