The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has initiated an investigation into the Alaska Airlines flight that was compelled to perform an emergency landing after a section of the aircraft ruptured mid-flight.
According to an announcement made by the agency on Saturday morning, the NTSB has deployed a specialized team, known as the Go Team, to Portland, Oregon to conduct the investigation. The incident involved a Boeing 737-9 MAX during a flight from Portland to Ontario, California. The team, composed of experts in structures, operations, and systems, is expected to arrive at the scene later today. Jennifer Homendy, the Chair of the NTSB, will serve as the spokesperson on site.
The Alaska Airlines flight departed from Portland International Airport at approximately 4:52 p.m. local time on Friday. However, shortly after takeoff, the aircraft abruptly changed its course.
Alaska Airlines issued a statement acknowledging that the flight, which carried 171 passengers and six crew members, encountered an unspecified incident. No further details were provided by the airline regarding the nature of the incident.
Eyewitnesses on board the flight reported that the force of the rupture caused passengers' cell phones and personal belongings to be sucked out through the gaping hole in the side of the cabin. One witness recounted how a child had to be physically restrained by their mother to prevent them from being pulled away by the force of the air pressure.
The NTSB's investigation aims to determine the cause of the incident and assess any potential safety concerns. As the investigation unfolds, further updates will be provided by the NTSB.
Login