According to the whistleblower, bolts used to secure the door panel plug weren’t even installed from the factory. If confirmed, this speaks volumes about not only how Boeing runs its commercial aviation business, but also how airliners are inspected and approved for use.
Theoretically, someone on the production line or final inspection should have noticed the fact that the plane wasn’t properly built. On January 21, the Federal Aviation Administration released a statement that informed airlines that they should be checking door panel plugs on all Boeing 737-900ER aircraft. On January 17, the FAA released a statement informing that it would be taking a deep dive into Boeing’s overall manufacturing.
Even when it comes to non-737 MAX 9 aircraft, it seems Boeing can’t escape bad press and safety alerts. Just yesterday, a Boeing 757 flying for Delta Airlines lost a front landing gear wheel as it prepared to takeoff. Fortunately, the plane did not take off and no one was injured.
