Passengers on United Airlines flight 354 from San Francisco to Boston experienced a scare when the aircraft had to divert to Denver due to a wing slat issue. The incident involved a 30-year-old Boeing 737 MAX 9, with 165 people on board, but fortunately, everyone emerged unharmed.
A wing slat, located on the leading edge of the wing, is a movable component that alters the wing's shape to enhance lift during low-speed flight. This malfunction, known as delamination, has been previously observed on a 757 aircraft in July 2010.
Notably, the recent incident comes in the wake of heightened vigilance among passengers following the Alaska Airlines flight 1282 incident on January 5th, where a door plug blowout occurred on a new 737 MAX 9. The incident underscores the aging of commercial aircraft in the U.S., with the average age now standing at around 13 years.
Despite the alarming sight of the damaged wing slat, the aircraft managed to land safely in Denver, avoiding any further complications. The passenger's alertness in noticing the issue and promptly informing the crew played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of all individuals on board.
As planes continue to age, maintenance and vigilance become increasingly vital to prevent potential mishaps. The aviation industry will likely intensify its focus on ensuring the airworthiness of older aircraft to maintain the safety and security of passengers and crew members.
