United Airlines announced Friday that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) would ramp up its oversight of the airline following a series of recent safety incidents.
In a memo to employees, United’s corporate safety vice president, Sasha Johnson, stated that the FAA would conduct a comprehensive review of the airline’s work processes, manuals, and facilities over the next few weeks.
The Chicago-based carrier faced several emergencies in the preceding weeks, including a missing external panel on one of its aircraft in Oregon, and incidents involving a Boeing 737 MAX and a Boeing 777-200.
Johnson’s memo emphasized the significance of evaluating current practices to ensure safety and welcomed the FAA’s involvement.
FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker confirmed plans for closer monitoring of United, highlighting the agency’s commitment to upholding safety standards. Scrutiny on Boeing has escalated following an Alaska Airlines mid-air emergency, prompting inquiries into safety and quality standards in aircraft production.
The FAA responded to United’s memo by reiterating its commitment to monitoring all aspects of airline operations to ensure compliance with regulations and effective risk management.
Whitaker emphasized the importance of distinguishing between isolated incidents and broader safety trends, highlighting the redundancy and resilience built into aviation systems.
The intensified scrutiny on United and Boeing reflects the aviation industry’s dedication to maintaining safety amid recent incidents.
While ensuring safety remains paramount, stakeholders acknowledge the need for continuous evaluation and improvement to address emerging challenges effectively.
