New Details Released in Alaska Airlines Jet Door Blowout Incident
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released a preliminary report shedding light on the recent mid-air blowout of a door on an Alaska Airlines jet. The report reveals that four critical bolts, necessary to keep the jet's door plug secure, were missing. The findings have prompted a lawsuit by 21 passengers against Boeing and Alaska Airlines.
The preliminary report confirms that the plane, delivered by Boeing to Alaska Airlines, was lacking the necessary bolts. This has led to concerns about the safety of the aircraft, as the door plug could have blown off at any time, putting the passengers at risk. The final report from the NTSB is expected in about a year.
The incident has raised questions about the lack of information provided to pilots regarding the potential hazards of the door plug. In the event of a blowout, the cockpit door could fly open, causing disruptions and potentially endangering the passengers and crew.
Mark Lindquist, the attorney representing the passengers in the lawsuit, has expressed concerns about the lack of awareness among pilots regarding the plane's construction and potential consequences. He draws parallels between this incident and the Max 8 disaster, highlighting the need for pilots to have a comprehensive understanding of the aircraft they operate.
The impacted passengers have reported various physical and psychological effects following the incident, such as sleeplessness, nightmares, and flashbacks. Some individuals have also suffered physical injuries, including hearing damage. These experiences have been described as traumatic, with many passengers feeling lucky to have survived. Had the incident occurred at a higher altitude, the outcome could have been catastrophic.
The psychological impact of the incident is evident in the reactions of the passengers. Lindquist cites a case of a client who experienced extreme distress when a balloon popped at a birthday party, demonstrating how trauma can affect individuals in unexpected ways.
The responsibility for ensuring aviation safety is being called into question, with Boeing acknowledging accountability for the incident. However, concerns have been raised about the self-regulation of aircraft manufacturers, as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) primarily relies on their own inspections, trusting that they are diligently maintaining aircraft safety standards. This incident highlights the potential flaws in this system, calling for the FAA to step up their oversight and regulatory measures.
As investigations continue, the public remains concerned about the safety of the affected aircraft. Although the plane is currently under intense scrutiny, it is expected to resume regular flights in the coming months. The hope is that necessary precautions will be taken to address the identified issues and ensure the safety of passengers in the future.
