Indian Carriers Share Updates Following Boeing’s 737 MAX Loose Bolt Alert
Boeing issued an alert about loose bolts in the rudder system of 737 MAX aircraft, prompting inspections by airlines in India and around the globe. India’s aviation regulator, DGCA, is monitoring the situation and is in touch with Boeing and the affected airlines. The inspections currently have no impact on operations and delivery schedules of airlines such as SpiceJet and Akasa Air.
Boeing recently issued an alert on Boeing 737 MAX aircraft’s rudder system and advised airlines to conduct inspections for possible loose bolts in the system. Airlines in India that operate the type have been carrying out checks to ensure there are no defects that can affect flight safety.
India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), is closely monitoring the situation and has been in touch with affected airlines in India. The regulator is also in touch with its American counterpart and manufacturer, Boeing.
This has been an ongoing issue with MAX 737 and these are service bulletins issued from time to time by Boeing to the airline operators for the suggested action whenever any issue is come across. We have been in touch with Boeing, FAA and our airline operators in the past too on such issues concerning the 737 MAX, stated the DGCA.
SpiceJet and Akasa Air, two Indian carriers operating Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, have confirmed that the inspections have not impacted their operations. SpiceJet’s spokesperson mentioned that the inspections take less than two hours per aircraft and there is no disruption to their schedule. Akasa Air’s spokesperson also assured that proper inspections are being conducted and their operations remain unaffected.
Boeing’s alert comes after an unnamed operator discovered a loose bolt in the rudder system during routine maintenance. Subsequent inspections by Boeing uncovered another undelivered aircraft with a loosely tightened nut. In response, Boeing issued a recommendation for all operators to inspect their 737 MAX airplanes and report any findings.
The 737 MAX is currently operated by three carriers in India. Akasa Air, the largest operator, has 22 737 MAX aircraft in its fleet. Air India Express operates nine units of the 737 MAX 8, with the first delivery taking place earlier this year. SpiceJet has 13 737 MAXs.
Though the 737 MAX has a relatively small presence in India at the moment, it is expected to become a more common aircraft type in the near future. Air India has an order for 190 737 MAXs, while Akasa Air has 76 on order. SpiceJet also has 155 on order, with the majority yet to be delivered.
As authorities and airlines continue to conduct inspections, the situation remains under control with no immediate impact on operations or delivery schedules. The DGCA is closely monitoring the situation and maintaining communication with Boeing, US regulators, and the affected airlines. Safety remains the top priority as the inspections help ensure the continued safe operation of the 737 MAX fleet.
