After the dramatic incident with one of its Boeing aircraft, Alaska Airlines reacts with a drastic step: Own inspectors are being sent to the production lines of the aircraft manufacturer. This highlights the loss of trust in Boeing's quality controls.

Furthermore, it is becoming apparent that the affected 737-9 Max aircraft will remain on the ground for even longer. The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) wants to gather additional information before making a decision on inspecting the machines.

During the incident on January 12, shortly after takeoff, a fuselage part ripped off from an almost new Alaska aircraft. Some configurations of this type have a door in that area, but the 737-9 Max had a cover that sealed the opening.

FAA and other authorities ordered all 170 similar aircraft of this type to be grounded for inspections. Loose fastening parts were later found on United Airlines machines as well. This raises serious questions about Boeing's quality controls.

The FAA has already initiated investigations and intensified its oversight of the production of the 737-9 Max. The fuselage of these models is primarily assembled by supplier Spirit Aerosystems for Boeing. In an interview, Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun admitted that previous quality issues have not been resolved.

To avoid future incidents, Alaska announced to inspect certain aircraft themselves on the production lines. Additionally, they will conduct their own examination of Boeing's control mechanisms. Fortunately, the approximately 170 passengers on the Alaska Airlines incident escaped unharmed, despite a large hole in the fuselage.

Experts pointed out fortunate circumstances: The part broke off during ascent at an altitude of approximately 5 kilometers, while all passengers were fastened with seat belts. Additionally, the two seats directly beside the opening were unoccupied. This is not Boeing's first misstep in recent months.

The deliveries of 737 Max models had to be interrupted twice due to quality deficiencies - first because of problems with the rear fuselage section, then because of faulty drill holes in the pressure bulkhead that closes off the aircraft cabin in the rear.

The airlines and passengers now have to hope that Boeing's efforts to eliminate these deficiencies are successful in order to ensure the safety of their flights.