Investigators Find 737 MAX Mechanic on Vacation During Critical Maintenance

Mechanic Absence during Critical Maintenance
A Boeing mechanic, an experienced veteran with 35 years of service, typically held the sole responsibility for door plug maintenance on Boeing 737 aircraft. However, during critical work on an Alaska Airlines 737 Max, this mechanic was on vacation, leaving a trainee with limited experience to handle the task.
Trainee’s Role and Limited Experience
The trainee who filled in for the veteran mechanic had only 17 months of experience at Boeing and had previously worked at fast-food restaurants. This lack of relevant experience raised concerns about the adequacy of the door plug’s handling.
Door Plug Maintenance Irregularities
The door plug was opened to replace damaged rivets, but there was no record of this opening and closing in the system. Consequently, no quality inspection was conducted, potentially compromising the integrity of the maintenance performed.
Pressure on Boeing’s Maintenance Team
The veteran mechanic expressed concerns about the pressure faced by the door team at Boeing’s Renton factory. He had experienced frequent management changes in recent years, suggesting potential staffing and resource issues within the department.
Missed Communication
The veteran mechanic expressed confusion over why his shop was not contacted to perform the door plug opening, which usually falls under his jurisdiction. This oversight highlighted potential communication lapses within Boeing’s maintenance operations.
Boeing’s Response
Boeing did not immediately respond to a request for comment following the incident. However, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) continues to investigate the matter, focusing on the impact of the mechanic’s absence and the trainee’s experience on the aircraft’s maintenance.
Impact of the Incident
The loss of the door plug during flight on January 5, 2023, raised concerns about the safety and integrity of Boeing’s 737 Max aircraft. The investigation aims to identify the root cause of the incident and recommend corrective actions to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Ongoing Investigation
The NTSB’s investigation into the Alaska Airlines 737 Max incident remains ongoing, with further details expected to emerge as the investigation progresses. The findings and recommendations from this investigation will play a crucial role in ensuring the safe operation of Boeing 737 Max aircraft worldwide.