FAA Clears Boeing Max 737-9 for Return to Service After Inspection Approval

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has given the green light to a comprehensive inspection and maintenance process for Boeing's Max 737-9 aircraft, setting the stage for their return to the skies. This approval follows an incident on January 5, when a door plug detached mid-flight from an Alaska Airlines Max 737-9, leading to the grounding of 171 planes since January 6.

Inspection and Maintenance Protocol

To ensure safety, each of the grounded Boeing aircraft is subject to a 12-hour inspection procedure. Once cleared, these planes will resume service. This announcement was shared by the FAA on Wednesday, emphasizing a commitment to rigorous scrutiny prior to reinstating flights.

Carriers Prepare for Takeoff

Alaska Airlines is already gearing up to deploy the first of its 65 Max-9 planes, with a full inspection schedule outlined to render each aircraft airworthy. By the end of the week, the airline expects the process will be complete. United Airlines also has plans in motion, targeting a January 28 return for its 79 aircraft, stressing the importance of completing the in-depth inspection process. Copa Airlines joins the roster, aiming to bring its 21 grounded aircraft back gradually, with expectations to resume full service by January 28.

Quality Controls and Oversight

FAA administrator Mike Whitaker insists that the approval for inspection does not signal a return to the status quo for Boeing. The aviation powerhouse will not see any expansion in production or additional lines for the Max 737 until the FAA is convinced that the quality control issues discovered are fully resolved. To further this goal, the FAA has ramped up its oversight of Boeing's new Max 737 aircraft and has initiated an inquiry into the company's adherence to manufacturing requirements.

FAA, Boeing, Inspection