Boeing 737 MAX Aircraft Face New Blow Over Fuselage Damage Mid-Air

January 8, 2024

An Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 MAX-9 made an emergency landing on January 5th after a fuselage panel blew out mid-flight causing cabin depressurization and leaving a gaping hole in the aircraft body.

DGCA Directs Checks on Indian MAX Fleet

While no Indian carrier operates the MAX-9 specifically involved, India’s aviation regulator DGCA asked local operators to inspect MAX-8s being from the same 737 family.

Preliminary Investigation Details

The plane was flying at around 16,000 feet altitude 30 minutes after taking off from Portland when the structural failure occurred, leading to a chaotic scene and injuries. Luckily all made it back safely.

Aerospace Firm Manufactured Failed Component

The failed plug door designed to serve as an extra emergency exit was made by Kansas-based Spirit AeroSystems, as per reports. Further probes are underway.

Over 170 MAX Aircraft Grounded Globally

In the US and countries like Panama, MAX-9 jets were pulled from service for safety checks. India might ground MAX fleet if risks emerge following inspections.

Nightmare Continues for Boeing’s MAX

Already reeling from 2 deadly crashes forcing long groundings before, the latest blow deals a setback to Boeing’s efforts in rebuilding trust around the top-selling MAX aircraft family.

Life-threatening Risks Remain

Despite design modifications and reviews, the recurring glitches indicate safety issues still lurk that jeopardise passengers’ well-being unless manufacturing rigor and regulatory oversight improves.

Crisis Management Actions to the Fore

With probes progressing, Boeing and aviation bodies like FAA face immense scrutiny and pressure to swiftly pinpoint and resolve all deficiencies before irrevocable tragedy strikes forcing more prolonged aircraft groundings.

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