Boeing admits mistake over plane door blow-out
The head of Boeing has conceded that the aerospace company was responsible after one of its planes experienced a door blowout shortly after takeoff in the United States.
No injuries were reported when the unused cabin door detached from the Alaska Airlines flight departing from Portland, Oregon last Friday.
In response to the incident, the US has grounded 171 Boeing 737 Max 9 planes. Boeing’s President and CEO, Dave Calhoun, admitted the company’s mistake and emphasized a commitment to complete transparency during an address to Boeing staff.
The incident involved a 27kg (60lb) door “plug” used to fill an unnecessary emergency exit on the plane.
The missing part was recovered from a Portland teacher’s backyard, according to the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
Investigations have revealed that the airline had imposed restrictions on the aircraft due to pressurization warnings in the days leading up to the event.
Calhoun assured Boeing employees that the company would collaborate with the NTSB to determine the cause of the accident and implement necessary safety measures.
The Boeing boss also empathized with those who watched with horror at the footage of the incident: “When I got that picture, all I could think about – I didn’t know what happened so whoever was supposed to be in the seat next to that hole in the airplane. I’ve got kids, I’ve got grandkids and so do you. This stuff matters. Every detail matters.”
Inspections of Boeing 737 Max 9’s are continuing after the FAA said its first priority was “keeping the flying public safe”.
