CEO says Boeing must acknowledge ‘our mistake’ as 737 Max 9 jets are grounded

The fuselage plug area of Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 Boeing 737 Max 9 during its investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board in Portland, Oregon. Photograph: NTSB/Reuters

Boeing must acknowledge “our mistake”, its CEO has said, after the cabin panel of a 737 Max 9 jet blew off during an Alaska Airlines flight last week.

Dozens of Max 9 planes have been grounded following the incident, awaiting inspection amid heightened concerns around safety. Alaska and United Airlines have since both found loose parts on several jets.