US federal officials clear the way for grounded Boeing planes to fly again. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said on Wednesday (24/1) that it had approved the inspection and maintenance process that the plane would have to go through. After that, Boeing was allowed to carry passengers again.
Meanwhile, the US Congress is involved in a safety review of Boeing planes, after a panel came loose from a Boeing 737 Max 9 jetliner mid-flight this month. Senator Maria Cantwell of Washington state said Boeing must put safety before profits. He plans a hearing in the Senate on the issue.
Official Mike Whitaker said the FAA would not approve Boeing's request to expand production of the Max plane until the agency was confident that quality control issues had been addressed.
“Boeing can't just restart its business,” Whitaker promised.
The production limit will only apply to the Max, which now has two models, the 8 and 9. Boeing produces about 30 units per month, but has been looking to increase production in recent times.
Boeing said it would work with the FAA and airlines to get the grounded plane back in the air.
“We will continue to cooperate fully and transparently with the FAA and follow their guidance as we take steps to strengthen safety and quality at Boeing,” the company said. “We will also work closely with our customer airlines as they complete inspection procedures to return to service the 737-9 aircraft.” (ps/rs)