United Airlines Says It Can Now Add New Aircraft and Routes After FAA Safety Review

After a safety review in March, United Airlines announced that it received a go signal from the Federal Aviation Administration to start adding new aircraft and routes. 

A series of flight mishaps earlier this year resulted in United receiving an FAA safety review. In a note to employees, United said, “Today, we got some good news: after a careful review and discussion about the proactive safety steps United has taken to date, our FAA Certificate Management Office has allowed us to begin the process of restarting our certification activities, including new aircraft and routes, and we will continue to coordinate closely with the FAA.”  

Mishaps

The airline experienced increased oversight after a series of flight problems. These incidents include the detachment of an aluminum skin during a flight from San Francisco to Oregon, a subsequent tire that fell after takeoff from San Francisco, and an engine fire incident in Houston.

After these incidents, United CEO Scott Kirby assured customers that the airline was safe. He clarified that the events were unrelated but “have our attention and have sharpened our focus.”

Safety Review Verdict Not Yet Final

Despite United’s optimism, the FAA clarified that the decision isn’t final. According to the FAA, the safety review “is ongoing, and safety will determine the timeline for completing it.”. An FAA spokesperson said, “The FAA has not approved any expansion of United Airlines’ routes or fleets.”

United admitted that there’s so much more work to do. It said in the memo, “We will continue to see an FAA presence in our operation as they review our work processes, manuals and facilities.”

The FAA’s heightened scrutiny of United happened amid concerns regarding Boeing’s safety issues after a 737 Max 9’s door plug blew off during an Alaska Airlines flight. 

However, a clearance from the FAA would be welcome news for United as airlines expect a record summer travel season.