Boeing 737 MAX 9 remains grounded – no return date set

After a week of intensive inspections and 40 evaluations, the Boeing 737 MAX 9 continues to be grounded, and there is no definitive timeline for its return to the skies.

On Wednesday, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) disclosed that it had initiated a review of data stemming from the initial round of inspections carried out on the grounded 737 MAX 9 aircraft.

These planes, totaling approximately 171 in number, have come under close regulatory and consumer scrutiny following a concerning incident on an Alaska Airlines flight departing from Portland on January 5.

During that flight, a door plug, intended to cover an unused emergency exit, became dislodged.

Grounded indefinitely

In response to this incident, the FAA promptly grounded the MAX 9 planes that incorporated the same door plug. Investigators are currently exploring whether the bolts meant to secure the plug to the aircraft were either improperly installed or entirely missing.

The MAX 9 fleet will remain grounded until they undergo inspections in accordance with guidelines issued by Boeing, a process that has not yet received FAA approval.

However, despite the completion of 40 preliminary inspections, the recent announcement by the FAA does not signify an imminent return to service for the MAX 9. Instead, it represents a step in what is anticipated to be an extensive and thorough examination process.

The FAA clarified its stance in a statement, asserting, “All 737-9 MAX aircraft with door plugs will remain grounded pending the FAA’s review and final approval of an inspection and maintenance process that satisfies all FAA safety requirements.

“Once the FAA approves an inspection and maintenance process, it will be required on every grounded 737-9 MAX prior to future operation.”

The inspection guidelines, a pivotal phase for the resumption of MAX 9 flights, have undergone a series of approvals and revisions.

Flight delays

Meanwhile, the aviation industry is expected to witness ongoing flight delays and cancellations as airlines work to adjust to the absence of the grounded planes.

According to FlightAware, as of Wednesday evening, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport had reported 121 flight cancellations and 335 delayed flights.

Government shutdown

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation into the fuselage incident on Alaska Flight 1282.

NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy expressed deep concern about the potential impact of a government shutdown on the ongoing investigation.

A funding lapse could significantly hinder the NTSB’s efforts and delay the delivery of timely safety recommendations.

Congress has a few remaining days to reach a compromise on funding bills to avert a partial government shutdown, which is scheduled to occur later this week.