Accidents
NTSB Faults Boeing Training in 2024 Max 9 Door Failure
FAA also faulted for failure to monitor Boeing’s SMS
NTSB Logo Seal
© NTSB

Boeing’s failure to ensure adequate training, guidance, and oversight of its factory personnel led to the in-flight mid-exit door plug blowout on Alaska Airlines Flight 1282, the NTSB found in a June 24 board meeting. The Board also cited the FAA’s ineffective oversight of Boeing’s quality and safety systems as a contributing factor in the Jan. 5, 2024 incident involving the 737 Max 9. 

Climbing through 14,830 feet about six minutes after departing Portland, Oregon, the airliner experienced rapid decompression after the left mid-exit door plug blew out. Investigators determined that the door plug had not been secured with the four bolts required to hold it in place, and the plug had incrementally shifted during earlier flights before detaching entirely.