Boeing 737 Max 9 jetliners will carry passengers in the United States again, starting this weekend, for the first time since they were grounded after a panel blew out of the side of one of the planes. Alaska Airlines plans to resume flights with its Max 9s on Friday, and United aims to follow suit on Sunday. Those are the only two U.S. airlines that operate this particular model of the Boeing 737.
After a panel blew out of a Boeing 737 Max 9, leading to a temporary grounding, Alaska Airlines is set to resume flights this weekend, with United following suit. Passengers may have safety concerns, but the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) emphasizes the inspection and repair process for door plugs, the culprits in the incident. With the FAA’s green light, airlines are conducting detailed visual inspections and adjustments to ensure the Max 9’s safety. Despite initial hesitations, airline officials expect public confidence to rebound as travelers have historically returned to flying even after significant incidents. While the FAA investigates Boeing’s manufacturing processes, the aviation giant faces challenges, with implications for its market standing and rival Airbus gaining ground.