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Boeing’s 737 MAX Production adn Safety Concerns (Updated January 30, 2026)
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Boeing continues to navigate increased scrutiny and production limitations related to the 737 MAX following a mid-air incident on January 5, 2024, and subsequent investigations by the Federal Aviation Management (FAA). As of January 30, 2026, production rates remain below pre-2024 levels, and the company is focused on addressing quality control issues and implementing enhanced safety measures.
The January 5, 2024 Alaska airlines Incident
The incident, involving Alaska Airlines Flight 1282, prompted a grounding of 737 MAX 9 aircraft for inspections. A door plug blew out during flight, leading to a rapid depressurization of the cabin. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) persistent that bolts securing the door plug were missing.
Definition / Direct Answer: The January 5, 2024 incident involved the in-flight loss of a door plug on an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9, triggering a temporary grounding of the aircraft type.
Detail: The NTSB investigation revealed that Boeing failed to follow proper inspection procedures after the door plug was removed for repair at the Spirit AeroSystems facility in Wichita, kansas. Specifically, documentation was missing to confirm that all required bolts were reinstalled.This failure in quality control is a central focus of ongoing investigations.
Example or Evidence: The NTSB’s preliminary report on the incident, released January 18, 2024, detailed the missing bolt issue and the lack of documentation.NTSB Preliminary Report (AM24FA004)
FAA Oversight and Production Limits
Following the incident, the FAA initiated a complete review of Boeing’s manufacturing processes and quality control systems. The agency imposed production limits on the 737 MAX, restricting boeing from increasing production rates until it demonstrates substantial improvements in safety and quality.
Definition / Direct Answer: The FAA imposed production limits on Boeing’s 737 MAX program in early 2024, restricting output until the company addresses quality control deficiencies.
Detail: The FAA’s restrictions initially capped 737 MAX production at the rate boeing was achieving in April 2023. The agency has since allowed for limited increases,contingent on prosperous completion of audits and implementation of corrective actions. Boeing is currently operating under a system of increased FAA inspections and oversight.
Example or Evidence: On February 29, 2024, the FAA announced the results of its audit of Boeing’s 737 MAX production system, finding five non-conformities. FAA Statement on Boeing 737 MAX Production Audit Results. The FAA also issued a Notice of Proposed Safety Assessment (NOPSA) requiring Boeing to develop a comprehensive plan to address the identified issues.
Spirit AeroSystems Involvement
Spirit AeroSystems, a major supplier to Boeing, manufactured the door plugs for the 737 MAX. The company has also faced scrutiny for its quality control practices. Boeing has since announced plans to bring door plug manufacturing back in-house.
Definition / Direct Answer: Spirit AeroSystems manufactured the door plugs involved in the January 5, 2024 incident and is facing increased scrutiny regarding its quality control processes.
Detail: Boeing’s decision to internalize door plug manufacturing is intended to improve oversight and ensure consistent quality. The move is expected to take several years to fully implement. Spirit aerosystems has announced significant layoffs consequently of the lost Boeing contract.
Example or Evidence: Boeing announced its intention to bring door plug manufacturing in-house on February 22, 2024. Boeing to bring 737 MAX Door Plug Manufacturing In-House
Current Production Status (January 30, 2026)
As of January 30, 2026, Boeing is producing approximately 32 737 MAX aircraft per month, a figure considerably lower than its pre-2024 target of 50 per month. The company is working to address
