The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) announced on Sunday that a crucial part that detached from an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX jet midair has been recovered. The missing component, a plug door, was found in the backyard of a suburban home. The incident occurred on Friday when the plug door tore off the left side of the jet, causing the plane to depressurize and prompting the pilots to make an emergency landing. All passengers and crew on board, totaling 171 passengers and six crew members, landed safely.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) subsequently issued a temporary grounding order for 171 Boeing MAX 9 jets equipped with the same panel as a precautionary measure. This particular panel, which weighs approximately 27kg, covers an optional exit door commonly used by low-cost airlines.
The plug door was discovered on Sunday by a local Portland school teacher identified as Bob from the Cedar Hills neighborhood. NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy expressed her relief at the recovery, emphasizing that the door is a key missing component for understanding the cause of the accident.
Homendy stated that the NTSB’s structures team will conduct a thorough examination of the door and its components. They will analyze witness marks, paint transfer, and the door’s overall condition to gather important insights into what transpired during the incident.
According to Homendy, the force generated by the detachment of the plug door was powerful enough to blow open the cockpit door in midair. She described it as a terrifying event for the pilots, who have already been interviewed by investigators regarding their experience.
The investigation into this incident is ongoing, with the NTSB working to determine the root cause of the plug door’s detachment. By analyzing the recovered door and conducting detailed interviews, the agency aims to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
As news of this incident spread, concerns regarding the safety of the Boeing 737 MAX 9 jets installed with the same panel have arisen. The temporary grounding order by the FAA reflects the cautious approach taken to ensure the well-being of passengers and crew.
Passengers and aviation enthusiasts worldwide are eager to receive updates on the investigation’s progress to gain a clearer understanding of what led to this alarming in-flight incident. Meanwhile, Boeing, Alaska Airlines, and relevant aviation authorities are cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation, prioritizing the safety of air travel.
The recovery of the crucial plug door raises hopes that investigators will soon be able to shed light on the precise cause of the accident. The NTSB will continue working meticulously to provide a comprehensive analysis, contributing to the enhancement of aviation safety protocols to avoid similar incidents in the future.
Ultimately, the aviation industry seeks to restore the confidence of passengers and reassure them that safety remains the top priority. As the investigation progresses, airlines will closely monitor the updates to implement any necessary measures in their fleets, ensuring the continued safe operation of their aircraft.
