Losses of 200 Billion Won... US Airlines Furious Over Boeing Plane Crashes, Outraged by Management Losses

Alaska Airlines Expects $150 Million Loss from Boeing Plane Accident
"Feeling Anger Beyond Frustration and Disappointment"

On the 8th (local time), Alaska Airlines and United Airlines passenger planes stood side by side at San Francisco International Airport in California, USA. On this day, United Airlines announced that after a thorough investigation of the Boeing 737 Max 9 model, the same type as the Alaska Airlines plane that experienced a door detachment incident during a flight on the 5th, similar defects were found in the aircraft's emergency doors and other parts. [Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

In relation to the incident where a window was torn off a passenger plane in flight, airlines have announced plans to claim compensation from Boeing, the manufacturer of the problematic aircraft model, for massive operational losses.

On the 25th (local time), US media outlets Axios and AFP reported that the losses resulting from the Boeing plane accident of Alaska Airlines on the 5th are expected to reach $150 million (approximately 200.2 billion KRW). The accident occurred on a Boeing 737 Max 9 passenger plane operated by Alaska Airlines, where a window and part of the wall suddenly tore off while carrying 177 people in flight. The plane eventually made an emergency landing. Aside from some minor injuries, there were no casualties, but passengers reported a loud explosion sound and the deployment of oxygen masks.

Alaska Airlines and United Airlines are the airlines that have operated the most 737 Max 9 aircraft in the US. Ben Minicucci, CEO of Alaska Airlines, appeared on NBC on the 23rd and said, "I am angry. Beyond frustration and disappointment, I feel rage." Minicucci also raised concerns about Boeing's quality control, stating that their own inspection found many bolts loosely fastened on several Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft.

United Airlines, which owns the largest number of 737 Max 9 aircraft in the US, operates a total of 79 planes. Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines, appeared on CNBC and expressed disappointment, saying, "We are reviewing future contracts for the 'Boeing Max 10' model." Axios analyzed that airlines publicly criticizing Boeing is part of an aggressive PR strategy to clarify responsibility, restore corporate image, and regain customer trust.

Meanwhile, according to aviation information company Cirium, there are currently 215 Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft operating worldwide. United Airlines owns 79, and Alaska Airlines owns 65.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.