Southwest Airlines Contests Being Out of Compliance

More than 100,000 Southwest Airlines flights conducted in 44 airplanes appear to be out of compliance. FAA inspectors are looking into allegations of improper fuselage repairs. Inspectors believe mechanics may have inadequately reinforced the aircraft frame while installing new skin panels replacing frayed stressed areas. Southwest is federally responsible for repairs even when they are contracted out. This is not related to last years when Southwest used unapproved parts on 82 airplanes.

Aviation Technical Services in Everett, WA skin panel replacement procedures were performed without Federal approval.

Southwest said, “All of our maintenance operations promote aviation safety by working in coordination with the FAA, equipment manufacturers and aircraft maintenance organizations in every effort to ensure that our fleet is maintained in accordance with applicable regulations and is aligned with best practice in the industry”

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