Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max sheds part of hull mid‑flight, makes emergency landing

This incident unfolded on Friday, January 5, in Portland, Oregon. A Boeing 737 Max 9, operated by Alaska Airlines, turned back to Portland 35 minutes into its flight to California when an exterior section of the hull detached.

The airline confirmed that the plane landed safely with 177 passengers and a crew on board."

"AS1282 from Portland to Ontario, California, encountered a problem shortly after takeoff. The plane landed safely at the international airport in Portland with 171 guests and six crew members on board. We are investigating the incident and will provide more information as soon as it becomes available," announced the airline in a statement published on service X.

Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci assured, "No aircraft will be returned to service until a comprehensive overhaul and safety inspection are completed."

"I am deeply sorry for what the passengers experienced on that flight. My heart goes out to them," expressed Minicucci.

Footage published on social media suggests that the missing section of the hull was positioned behind the wings and engines in the rear third of the aircraft.

Boeing, the aircraft manufacturer, acknowledged the incident and stated that they are gathering additional information and details.

The Boeing 737 Max has been referred to as "the most scrutinized transport aircraft in history" due to various safety concerns and subsequent investigations.

The Max was grounded in March 2019 for eighteen months following two similar accidents involving this type of plane that led to the tragic deaths of everyone on board.