Boeing 737 Max door plug incident: NTSB to announce investigation’s findings

The NTSB held a hearing concluding Boeing and the FAA shared blame for the mid-air door plug failure on Alaska Airlines Flight 1282. Four bolts were missing on a Boeing 737 MAX 9’s mid-exit panel, causing uncontrolled decompression above Portland in January 2024. Investigators cited Boeing’s inadequate training, poor oversight, and systemic quality-control lapses in manufacturing.

The FAA’s approval processes and failure to enforce compliance were also criticized as contributing failures. Boeing will retrofit MAX jets with redesigned door plugs and backup systems, with full certification expected by 2026. NTSB chair praised the crew’s quick response but stressed the incident “never should have happened.”