The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a safety alert recommending that airlines visually inspect the door plugs of Boeing 737-900ER jets after a similar incident to the one affecting the Boeing 737-9 MAX planes. The safety alert was prompted by unspecified issues with the bolts reported by some airlines. In response, the FAA is calling for airlines to “visually inspect mid-exit door plugs” of the 737-900ER aircraft to ensure their proper securing.
This move comes after a Jan. 5 incident involving an Alaska Airlines flight where a door panel was blown off soon after takeoff, resulting in an emergency landing. Following this event, the FAA recommended that airlines operating Boeing 737-900ER aircraft take a closer look at the planes to ensure the door plugs are properly secured. The agency emphasized that this inspection serves as an additional layer of safety to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The FAA’s concern about the door plugs on the Boeing 737-900ER stems from its shared design with the 737 MAX 9, which had 171 jets grounded after a similar door panel incident. This has raised significant safety concerns and prompted the aviation agency to take proactive measures to prevent potential accidents.
The door plugs are an essential safety feature placed as a panel where an emergency door would be installed if the aircraft had more seats. The proper securing of these door plugs is critical for ensuring the structural integrity of the aircraft, especially during takeoff and landing.
Boeing stock has been under scrutiny amid these safety concerns. Circle Squared Alternative Investments founder Jeff Sica expressed his views on the matter, discussing whether Boeing stock is a buy on Varney & Co. The FAA’s actions and the recent incidents involving Boeing planes have raised questions about the company’s safety measures and potential impacts on investor confidence.
In response to the FAA’s safety alert, airlines are expected to promptly carry out visual inspections of the door plugs on their Boeing 737-900ER jets to address any potential issues with the bolts and ensure the proper securing of these crucial components. This precautionary step is crucial for maintaining the safety and reliability of these aircraft, as well as for instilling confidence among passengers and the aviation industry as a whole.
The enforcement of visual inspections and the FAA’s safety alert demonstrate the agency’s commitment to prioritizing air travel safety and addressing potential risks promptly. This proactive approach serves as a reminder of the crucial role regulatory authorities play in maintaining the highest standards of aviation safety.
