Given the potential hazards outlined by FAA and risks a nacelle shedding parts can pose, APA pilots want to know if the in-service precautions go far enough.
The new inlets are needed to address a hazard that could see the composite parts overheat and fail if engine anti-ice is used in certain circumstances.
The FAA’s decision to freeze 737 MAX production levels likely does not have a significant effect on top suppliers, according to executives and analysts.
Boeing is withdrawing its request for a time-limited exemption covering a de-icing system that would have allowed the 737-7 to be certified with a known noncompliance.
Though Boeing’s 737-9 is now allowed to return to service after close inspections, the FAA’s decision to freeze production at current levels is a huge blow.
Boeing is seeking an exemption from FAA to allow the 737-7 to be certified and enter service as the airframer works to address engine inlet durability issues.
Following receipt of an approved inspection and maintenance process from the FAA, Alaska expects to bring its first few 737-9s back into service on Jan. 26.
