Experts have raised concerns about the safety of a 33-year-old Boeing jet that recently had an emergency slide detach shortly after takeoff from JFK Airport in New York. The age of the jet, a Boeing 767, is well past the typical lifespan of a commercial aircraft, which is usually around 20 to 25 years. While Boeing discontinued delivering 767 passenger planes a decade ago, this model is still being used by the US military. The incident with the emergency slide is believed to be caused by a latch failure, as the slide only deploys when the emergency exit door over the wing is open.
It is unclear whether the incident with the emergency slide was due to the age of the plane or a maintenance issue on Delta Airlines’ end. Aviation experts have emphasized that airlines are responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of planes once they leave the manufacturer. Delta has stated that it is cooperating with the Federal Aviation Administration in the investigation, emphasizing the importance of safety for passengers and crew. The National Transportation Safety Board has not launched an investigation into the incident, as they are still collecting information.
The Boeing 767 involved in the incident is one of 44 in Delta’s fleet, with an average age of 28 years. Another incident involving an emergency slide occurred with a different Delta 767 flight last June, where the slide accidentally deployed inside the cabin in Utah after the flight was diverted due to a maintenance issue. It was determined that the slide had accidentally deployed due to human error, as it had not been disarmed by the flight attendant prior to opening the door on arrival.
Experts have pointed out that the incident with the detached emergency slide raises concerns about the maintenance practices and safety measures in place for older aircraft in commercial fleets. Manufacturers like Boeing have a responsibility to ensure the safety and reliability of their aircraft, but airlines are ultimately responsible for maintenance once the planes are in service. The age of an aircraft can increase the likelihood of mechanical failures, emphasizing the need for rigorous maintenance programs to ensure safe operations.
The Federal Aviation Administration may investigate the incident further to determine the root cause of the emergency slide detachment and whether any safety protocols were not followed. Safety is a top priority for airlines, and incidents like the one involving the detached emergency slide can serve as a wake-up call for reviewing maintenance procedures and ensuring the airworthiness of aging aircraft. With proper oversight and maintenance, older planes like the Boeing 767 can continue to operate safely in commercial fleets, meeting industry standards and ensuring the safety of passengers and crew members.
