In a midair scare over Oregon, a Boeing 737 Max 9 jet belonging to Alaska Airlines experienced a sudden depressurization when a part of the aircraft was blown off. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has revealed new details about the incident, highlighting the force behind the decompression. According to the NTSB, the impact of the incident was so strong that headrests and cushions were ripped off seats near the gaping hole in the plane. Fortunately, no passengers were seated directly next to the open hole.
As investigators delve into the incident, they are seeking the public's assistance in recovering the large piece of the plane that fell off during the flight, estimated to have occurred between 10,000 and 16,000 feet. Retrieving this piece could provide vital clues about what went wrong. The NTSB chair, Jennifer Homendy, described the scene as chaotic, emphasizing the cold and windy conditions on board.
The investigation will focus on several aspects, including interviewing the pilots and examining the plane's maintenance records. Homendy mentioned that there were prior pressurization issues with the aircraft, raising questions about the maintenance performed to address those concerns, as well as the maintenance of the door plug, the part that was found missing. Fortunately, the incident took place at 16,000 feet and near the airport, allowing the crew to land the plane quickly and safely.
Alaska Airlines confirmed that the seat next to the hole in the Boeing 737 Max 9 was unoccupied. However, it remains unknown whether someone missed their flight or if it was simply a stroke of luck.
Authorities are now searching for the missing piece of the plane and have reached out to the public for assistance. The exact condition of the piece is uncertain, and it is not known whether it will be found intact or in several pieces. The search area includes a densely populated suburban neighborhood and a large lake, adding complexity to the investigation. Divers may be involved in the search efforts.
In addition to the recovery operation, the investigation includes analyzing the flight data recorders, which will be sent to NTSB headquarters in Washington, D.C., for further analysis.
While the focus remains on determining the cause of the incident, it is worth noting the terrifying experience for those on board. Stephanie King, a passenger on the flight, described the initial moments as multiple explosions, followed by a rush of outside air and debris entering the cabin before being dramatically sucked back out.
As the investigation continues, authorities hope to gather the necessary information to prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure the safety of passengers and crew aboard Boeing 737 Max 9 jets.
