Watchdog Claims FAA Insufficiently Oversees United Airlines
A recent audit by the U.S. Transportation Department’s Office of Inspector General (OIG) has raised serious concerns regarding the effectiveness of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) oversight of United Airlines. The findings indicate that the FAA’s monitoring of the airline’s maintenance practices is inadequate, potentially compromising safety.
Audit Findings Highlight Oversight Issues
The OIG began its audit in 2024 after several safety incidents involving United Airlines aircraft. These incidents included unexpected in-flight engine shutdowns and emergency landings. The investigation is part of a larger series focused on FAA oversight of airline maintenance and compliance across various carriers.
Insufficient Resources and Personnel
- The report states that the FAA lacks enough inspectors to properly supervise United Airlines.
- Past audits have also reviewed other airlines, such as Allegiant Air and Southwest Airlines.
- Inspectors at the United Certificate Management Office (CMO) have not received adequate training to assess airline safety management system data.
Among the major issues identified in the report is the insufficient staffing at the United CMO, which has only four inspectors responsible for monitoring over 520 Boeing 737s, the bulk of United’s fleet. This situation has led to increased workloads and a significant turnover of personnel, resulting in a loss of institutional knowledge.
Recommendations for Improvement
The OIG made six recommendations to enhance FAA oversight and address staffing shortages. The FAA responded positively to five recommendations but “partially concurred” with one concerning the need to develop clearer policies for postponing inspections. The agency asserts that existing guidance on this topic is adequate but recognizes that management emphasis could improve understanding and execution.
Virtual Inspections and Safety Concerns
The report also highlights that in situations where on-site inspections are not feasible due to limited resources, inspectors occasionally turn to virtual inspections instead of adhering to FAA guidelines to postpone such evaluations.
In light of these findings, United Airlines reaffirmed its commitment to safety. The airline maintains a robust internal safety management system and collaborates closely with the FAA to ensure the reliability of its fleet.
