FAA’s Enhanced Scrutiny of United Airlines: Potential Delays in Future Plans
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced increased oversight of United Airlines following a series of safety incidents on the airline’s flights over the past month. This heightened scrutiny may lead to postponed plans for the beleaguered carrier.
FAA’s Statement on United Airlines Oversight
“In response to recent safety events, the FAA is ramping up our oversight of United Airlines,” an FAA spokesperson stated. “Our objective is to ensure that United is adhering to safety regulations, identifying hazards and managing risks effectively.”
Recent United Airlines Incidents Involving Boeing Jets
The intensified oversight followed an incident on March 15 where a United Boeing 737-800 landed in Medford, Oregon, without an external panel. Although no passengers were injured, it was one of several mishaps on United flights involving Boeing planes this month.
Additional Safety Incidents on United Flights
On March 3, a United Boeing plane experienced an engine flame-out shortly after takeoff. Another plane slid off the runway on February 27. A wheel detached during takeoff on February 10, and a hydraulic fluid leak occurred on January 31.
Possible Delayed Projects for United Airlines
The FAA did not provide specific details on which future projects could be delayed, but according to Bloomberg, the agency is considering halting United Airlines’ plans to add new routes and curbing the airline’s growth.
United Employees Notified of FAA Review
“Starting this week, you will begin seeing more of an FAA presence in our operation as they initiate a review of some of our work processes, manuals and facilities,” United told its employees in a memo. “This close examination will help us ensure we are doing all we can to promote and drive safety compliance.”
Boeing’s Safety Concerns
United Airlines’ predicament comes amid growing safety concerns surrounding Boeing, the manufacturer of most of its jets. Notable incidents involving Boeing planes include the loss of a door midflight on an Alaska Airlines plane on January 5 and a sudden descent experienced by a LATAM Airlines plane last week, injuring some passengers.
