FAA keeps Boeing 737 Max 9 jets grounded while awaiting new inspection steps (NYSE:BA)
P_Wei
Boeing (NYSE:BA) is revising its instructions for inspections and maintenance of the 737 Max 9, possibly extending the time the passenger plane will be grounded, the Federal Aviation Administration said Tuesday.
The agency on Saturday ordered airlines to ground the plane after an Alaska Airlines (NYSE:ALK) flight experienced a midair emergency. A door plug ripped away from the plane’s cabin shortly after takeoff, forcing the crew to make an emergency landing.
“Every Boeing 737-9 Max with a plug door will remain grounded until the FAA finds each can safely return to operation,” the FAA said in a statement. “To begin this process, Boeing (BA) must provide instructions to operators for inspections and maintenance.”
Boeing (BA) decided to revise an initial version of the instructions after receiving feedback, according to the FAA.
“Upon receiving the revised version of instructions from Boeing (BA) the FAA will conduct a thorough review,” the agency said. “The safety of the flying public, not speed, will determine the timeline for returning the Boeing (BA) 737-9 Max to service.”
Alaska Airlines (ALK) and United Airlines (NASDAQ:UAL) both have the plane model in their fleets, and have been forced to cancel flights while awaiting safety clearances.
