6-1-2024 (PORTLAND) A harrowing mid-air incident unfolded on Friday as an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 lost a section of its fuselage, including a window, compelling it to make an emergency landing in the US state of Oregon. The flight, en route to California, returned to Portland only 35 minutes into its journey.
Alaska Airlines confirmed that all 177 passengers and crew aboard Flight 1282 were safe, as the aircraft executed a secure landing in Portland. The airline immediately announced the temporary grounding of all 65 of its 737 Max 9 aircraft to conduct thorough inspections.
Passenger Diego Murillo described the alarming situation, stating that the gap in the fuselage was “as wide as a refrigerator,” accompanied by a “really loud bang.” Oxygen masks deployed as the plane descended rapidly.
Reports indicated that a child’s shirt was reportedly sucked out of the plane, emphasizing the severity of the incident. The CEO of Alaska Airlines, Ben Minicucci, commended the crew’s response and announced that each aircraft would undergo comprehensive maintenance and safety inspections before resuming service.
Images from the incident reveal a section of the fuselage missing, exposing the night sky, with debris scattered throughout the cabin. The affected area was behind the wing and engines, in the back third of the plane.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) confirmed its investigation into the incident, with Boeing stating its readiness to support the probe. The Federal Aviation Agency (FAA) acknowledged the safe return of the flight due to a reported pressurization issue.
The Boeing 737 Max, previously grounded for a year-and-a-half after fatal crashes, has since returned to service after extensive safety reviews. Aviation expert John Strickland highlighted that this incident is unrelated to previous safety concerns, emphasizing the cautious approach taken by Alaska Airlines.
Boeing, which recently resolved supply errors, is now increasing the pace of 737 Max deliveries. However, last month, the FAA urged airlines to inspect Max models for a potential loose bolt in rudder control systems. The unfolding investigation will provide crucial insights into the circumstances surrounding this alarming mid-air incident.
