FAA chief says taking ‘direct inspection approach’

From CNBC:

Michael Whitaker, nominee to be the next administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, testifies at a Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Technology hearing on Capitol Hill. FAA is conducting an audit of Boeing’s 737 Max production line after an almost brand-new Boeing 737 Max 9’s door plug blew out on an Alaska Airlines flight. No one was seriously injured. The FAA has increased oversight and sent “a couple of dozen” inspectors to visually inspect the aircraft as it comes through the production line. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

The FAA is increasing oversight and will keep “boots on the ground” at Boeing’s 737 Max factory until they are convinced the manufacturer’s quality control system is working. United and Alaska Airlines found loose bolts on several of Boeing’s Max 9 planes. The NTSB is conducting an investigation into the accident on Flight 1282. Inspections for return to service are taking longer than expected. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

The grounding of the Boeing 737 Max 9 may continue, and United Airlines is forecasting a financial loss due to the grounding. United is removing the 737 Max 10 from its fleet plans because of production delays. The 737 Max 7 and 10 have not yet been certified by the FAA. The grounding may be extended due to the inspections taking longer than anticipated, and United CEO expressed frustration at Boeing. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

The accidents involved the 737 Max 8 and Max 9, leading to a worldwide grounding of the aircraft to ensure safety. Alaska Airlines is adding additional staff for oversight on the production line after finding several loose bolts. Boeing has apologized for the delays and will pause work at several production lines to evaluate safety procedures. The FAA is considering taking over some of Boeing’s functions if necessary to ensure high-quality standards. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)



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