FAA Ramps Up Scrutiny of United Airlines

The agency's increased oversight of the legacy carrier follows numerous recent safety events.

Monday, March 25, 2024 at 04:01 PM ET

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The FAA said it is increasing oversight of United to ensure its compliance with safety regulations. [Courtesy: United Airlines]

Key Takeaways:

United Airlines experienced a series of unrelated safety-related incidents in March, including a lost panel, a dropped wheel, and an engine fire, though none reportedly put lives at risk.
The FAA is increasing its oversight of United Airlines, evaluating its safety compliance and risk management, which may lead to delays in future projects.
In response, United CEO Scott Kirby outlined enhanced safety measures, including reviewing incidents, additional pilot training, centralized maintenance training, and improved supplier management.
United's corporate safety leadership has informed employees that the FAA will be on-site for several weeks to review processes and facilities, welcoming their input for safety improvements.

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March has not been a good month for United Airlines. The legacy carrier has made headlines several times for unrelated incidents, such as the loss of an exterior lower panel from an aircraft reportedly in flight and the loss of wheel on takeoff.

Other incidents included a United aircraft engine fire, one leaving a trail of hydraulic fluid and an aircraft sliding off a runway, CNN reported.