• By Abhirupa Kundu
  • Wed, 24 Jan 2024 03:55 PM (IST)
  • Source:JND
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Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci has disclosed that loose bolts or hardware was found on "many" Boeing 737 MAX 9s during inspections following the January 5 mid-air cabin panel blowout that forced the emergency airline of a new Alaska flight. The aviation sector has come under the radar since the accident which occurred at 16,000 feet when a window and part of the aircraft's fuselage blew out sending passengers in jitters.

Alaska Airlines had earlier said that initial reports from its technicians indicated "some loose hardware was visible on some 737 MAX 9 planes". 

Minicucci speaking during an interview with NBC News said that he was angry and "more than frustrated and disappointed". "My demand on Boeing is what are they going to do to improve their quality programs in-house?" the CEO questioned.

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Speaking on the recent incident that has raised multiple safety concerns, Minicucci said that there was a "guardian angel" on the Alaska Airlines flight, which saved it passengers from getting severely injured.

Following the accident US safety regulators have ordered that all MAX 9 planes should be grounded. Boeing has been facing extreme scrutiny from regulators, customers and planemakers over its manufacturing quality since the accident.

"We are taking action on a comprehensive plan to bring these airplanes safely back to service and to improve our quality and delivery performance," United CEO Scott Kirby said.

The Alaska Airlines CEO said that inspections are taking about 10 hours per door and the final inspections await ultimate guidelines that the FAA will issue. He said that it would take several days to complete the inspections and for the planes to commence flying.

Boeing has said that it will help Max 9 operators address any findings during the checkings.

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