The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced on Friday that it will be increasing its oversight of Boeing's manufacturing and production processes. This decision comes in response to an incident that occurred last week, where a door panel blew off mid-air on an Alaska Airlines flight. FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker stated that it is necessary to re-examine the delegation of authority and assess any associated safety risks.

The FAA will be implementing several measures to ensure compliance with approved internal quality procedures. This includes conducting a compliance audit of the Boeing 737-9 MAX production line and its suppliers. The agency will also increase monitoring of in-service events related to the Boeing 737-9 MAX and assess safety risks. Additionally, the FAA is considering the use of an independent third party to oversee Boeing's inspections and quality system.

To conduct its initial inspection, the FAA has temporarily grounded certain Boeing 737 Max 9 planes. The agency has also launched an investigation into whether Boeing failed to ensure that the Boeing Model 737-9 MAX conformed to its design and complied with FAA regulations. Boeing has stated that it will fully cooperate with the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) in their investigations.

The FAA's decision to increase oversight comes after an incident on an Alaska Airlines flight, where a door plug fell off the fuselage midair. The flight had departed from Portland, Oregon and was headed to Ontario International Airport in San Bernardino County, California. Passengers reported hearing a loud bang shortly after takeoff, and a panel was found missing from the side of the fuselage. The plane was able to safely return to Portland International Airport, and no serious injuries were reported.

The FAA acknowledges that the incident should not have occurred and is taking steps to prevent similar incidents in the future. The agency will be conducting audits and assessments to evaluate Boeing's compliance with approved quality procedures. The goal is to reduce risk and ensure the safe operation of Boeing aircraft.

This announcement comes at a time when public confidence in Boeing planes has been shaken. Following the incidents involving the Boeing 737 Max planes, passengers have expressed concerns about the stability and safety of the aircraft. The FAA's increased oversight is a response to these concerns and aims to address any potential issues.

In addition to the FAA's actions, other airlines have also taken precautions. United Airlines recently made a precautionary premature landing after the flight crew noticed an issue with the plane's door indicator light. The FAA is currently investigating this incident as well.

The incidents involving the Boeing 737 Max planes have had tragic consequences in the past. In 2018, a Lion Air flight crashed into the Java Sea, resulting in the loss of all 189 lives on board. Another incident occurred in 2019 when an Ethiopian Airlines flight crashed, claiming the lives of all 157 people on board. Preliminary investigations revealed that software issues caused the planes to nosedive.

FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker has emphasized the agency's commitment to ensuring the safety of Boeing aircraft. The increased oversight and audits are part of the FAA's efforts to prevent future incidents and restore public trust in the aviation industry. The FAA is also exploring the possibility of involving a third party to oversee Boeing's inspections and quality system, further enhancing accountability and transparency.