Alaska Airlines Clip Wings: Enhanced Inspection Program

In early 2024, Alaska Airlines voluntarily grounded its fleet of Boeing 737-9 MAX aircraft following a mid-air incident involving a door plug on one of its planes. This incident, while alarming, led to a broader investigation and, importantly, a rigorous enhanced inspection program that Alaska Airlines internally dubbed “Clip Wings.” This program went above and beyond the mandated inspections required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other regulatory bodies.

Beyond Compliance: A Deeper Dive

While the FAA focused on specific areas related to the door plug and its installation, Alaska Airlines took a more comprehensive approach. The “Clip Wings” program wasn’t solely about adhering to the minimum requirements; it aimed to rebuild confidence in the airline’s maintenance practices and ensure the long-term airworthiness of its 737-9 MAX fleet.

This involved:

• Enhanced Visual Inspections: Trained technicians conducted detailed visual inspections of the aircraft’s fuselage, including areas around the door plugs and other critical structural components. This included using high-resolution cameras and borescopes to examine hard-to-reach areas.
• Torque Checks: A thorough review and verification of torque values on bolts and fasteners throughout the aircraft. Improperly tightened fasteners can lead to structural weaknesses and potential failures.
• Documentation Review: Scrutinizing maintenance records, installation procedures, and quality control documentation to identify any discrepancies or potential areas for improvement.
• Expanded Scope: Extending the inspection scope to include areas not specifically mandated by the FAA, based on internal risk assessments and engineering expertise.

Focus on Training and Quality

The “Clip Wings” program also emphasized enhanced training for maintenance personnel. This included refresher courses on proper inspection techniques, torque application, and documentation procedures. Alaska Airlines also implemented stricter quality control measures to ensure consistency and accuracy throughout the inspection process.

A key element was fostering a culture of transparency and open communication. Maintenance technicians were encouraged to report any concerns or discrepancies without fear of reprisal, ensuring that potential issues were addressed proactively.

Restoring Confidence

The “Clip Wings” program was ultimately about restoring public confidence in the safety of Alaska Airlines’ 737-9 MAX fleet. By exceeding regulatory requirements and demonstrating a commitment to thoroughness and quality, the airline aimed to reassure passengers and crew that every precaution had been taken to ensure their safety.

While the grounding and subsequent inspections caused disruptions to travel schedules, Alaska Airlines viewed it as a necessary step to reinforce its commitment to safety as its top priority. The “Clip Wings” program served as a testament to the airline’s proactive approach to aircraft maintenance and its dedication to maintaining the highest standards of safety in the industry.