The Aviation Industry’s Unaddressed Safety Costs: A Critical Look at the Recent Boeing 737 MAX 9 Incident

The aviation industry has been left reeling by a recent near disaster that occurred on January 5, 2024. During a flight at 16,000 feet, a 60-pound “door plug” blew out from a nearly new Boeing 737 MAX 9, leaving a gaping hole in the fuselage. In response, the Federal Aviation Administration grounded all 737 MAX 9 planes with similar plugs, with other countries following suit. While the media has highlighted the safe landing of the affected Alaska Airlines Flight 1282, questions remain about the industry’s approach to safety.

As a former United Airlines pilot now lecturing at Yale University’s School of Management, I believe the focus needs to shift from celebrating successful emergency landings to addressing the underlying issues. The use of door plugs to seal unused exits on commercial airliners raises critical questions about safety and airline practices. The industry’s cost-cutting measures often take precedence over passenger safety, as every functioning emergency exit comes with associated costs in maintenance, inspections, and staffing.

The U.S. aviation regulations dictate aircraft maintenance procedures, in-flight personnel assignments, and minimum standards for emergency exits. However, the issue arises when the same airplane is sold to different airlines with varying needs. While federal rules allow air carriers to disable exits and plug the openings based on seating capacity, it is unclear whether this approach is in the best interest of air safety.

The Boeing 737 MAX 9, a part of the 737 family of aircraft, has faced a series of safety concerns. Despite its popularity and high demand, the 737 MAX’s safety record has been marred by two fatal crashes and subsequent grounding. The rush to continue MAX development despite its problematic history raises significant safety concerns, especially considering its widespread use by major U.S. carriers.

These incidents underscore the need for a more thorough examination of the aviation industry’s safety practices and cost-cutting measures. It is crucial for regulatory bodies like the FAA to prioritize passenger safety over potential cost savings for airlines. As the aviation industry continues to grapple with safety challenges, it’s imperative for stakeholders to address the unintended costs and consequences of compromising safety in favor of financial interests.