NEW UNITED AIRLINES MYSTERY: FLIGHT DELAYED 17 HOURS AFTER FAA ANNOUNCES EXTRA OVERSIGHT

The airline that made the phrase “friendly skies” famous is getting a closer federal watch. And that could slow down some flights.

Knewz.com has learned the latest about problems with major airlines and their jets. United Airlines confirms it will have more government oversight after several safety issues developed.

“Over the next several weeks, we will begin to see more of an FAA presence in our operation,” United vice president Sasha Johnson informed employees Friday, March 22. The Federal Aviation Administration will “review some of our work processes, manuals and facilities.”

Johnson indicated United does not object to the extra attention. Mishaps in the air and on the ground already brought that.

Knewz.com has counted 10 UAL incidents in two weeks, including a jet with engine trouble that never took off from San Francisco for Japan Monday, March 18.

Another incident may have occurred since that report. KRON-TV reported a United flight from San Francisco to Aspen, Colorado was delayed 17 hours March 22-23.

The delay was in two parts: a 15-hour wait from Friday afternoon to Saturday morning, then an additional two-hour wait. The reason for the delays has not been revealed.

FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker says his agency’s review could reveal “if we see a pattern” in the problems.

The FAA released a statement to The Associated Press explaining its oversight will emphasize “compliance with applicable regulations; ability to identify hazards, assess and mitigate risk; and effectively manage safety.”

CNN noted the statement added “future projects may be delayed” because of what the review uncovers. It was not more specific, but it could mean a delay in United adding new routes.

United chief executive officer Scott Kirby has promised pilots will receive an extra training day in May.

The concern about United flights grew out of a series of problems with Boeing jets across several airlines. Some travelers now don’t want to get going on Boeing.

“I just can’t step on that plane,” New Jersey attorney Leila Amineddoleh told NBC News. “Even if the chance of getting hurt on a Boeing flight, even with all these incidents, is slim.”

That concern became high after a panel from an Alaska Airlines jet blew off in mid-air in early January. It was found in the backyard of an Oregon teacher.

Knewz.com reported in recent days that the FBI is investigating the incident as a possible crime. “We cannot tell you about its progress at this time,” a letter to passengers said, but no arrests have been announced.

Recent days brought news from NBC that some Boeing 737 Max jets have wiring problems. A proposed FAA rule would require wing inspections for possible damage every three years.

Former Boeing manager Ed Pierson, who directs the Foundation for Aviation Safety, noted that problem actually was found last summer.

“Not even reporting it — we’re learning about it through a federal rule-making process… under the guise of informing the public,” Pierson said. “You would think people would want to know.”

If travelers are afraid to board a Boeing jet, the only major alternative in the United States is Airbus. The Forecast International website reports Airbus has delivered more new aircraft than Boeing for five consecutive years.

2024-03-24T14:43:42Z dg43tfdfdgfd