WASHINGTON — Federal officials announced Thursday that they are investigating an unusual rolling motion experienced by a Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 Max, which might have been caused by a damaged backup power-control unit.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stated that it is working with Boeing and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to investigate the incident, which occurred on May 25 during a flight from Phoenix to Oakland, California.

Incident Details

According to the FAA, the plane experienced a “Dutch roll,” a complex motion characterized by a combination of yawing and rolling from wingtip to wingtip, resembling the movement of a Dutch ice skater. This phenomenon occurs when the aircraft oscillates in an unsteady manner, potentially leading to discomfort for passengers and crew. Fortunately, pilots are trained to recover from this condition, and the Southwest plane successfully landed in Oakland without incident. No injuries were reported among the 175 passengers and six crew members.

Preliminary Findings

A preliminary report by the FAA revealed that an inspection after the plane landed showed damage to a unit that provides backup power to the rudder. This backup power-control unit is a crucial component that ensures the aircraft's stability and control in case of primary system failure. The damage to this unit could have contributed to the unusual motion experienced during the flight.

Investigation and Collaboration

The FAA emphasized that other airlines have not reported similar issues with the Boeing 737 Max. The agency is conducting a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the damage and to ensure the continued safety of the aircraft. The investigation involves collaboration with Boeing and the NTSB, focusing on identifying any potential manufacturing or design flaws in the backup power-control unit.

Background on the 737 Max

The Boeing 737 Max has faced scrutiny in the past, notably after two fatal crashes involving the aircraft model in 2018 and 2019. These incidents led to a global grounding of the fleet while Boeing addressed software and design issues. The aircraft was recertified for flight in late 2020 after extensive reviews and modifications. The current investigation into the Dutch roll incident is separate from the issues that led to the previous grounding, but it highlights the continued vigilance required to maintain aviation safety.

Response from Southwest Airlines and Boeing

Southwest Airlines has expressed its commitment to passenger safety and is cooperating fully with the investigation. The airline confirmed that the crew handled the situation professionally, following standard procedures to ensure a safe landing. Boeing, the manufacturer of the 737 Max, has also stated its dedication to addressing any concerns raised by the incident and working closely with the FAA and NTSB to identify and resolve the issue.

Expert Insights

Andrew Maynard, a professor of advanced technology at Arizona State University, commented on the situation, noting that the incident underscores the complexity of modern aircraft systems. “The technology in these aircraft is incredibly advanced, but it’s not infallible. Incidents like this remind us of the importance of continuous monitoring and improvement to ensure safety,” Maynard said. “The industry’s response to such events is critical in maintaining public trust and enhancing the reliability of aviation technology.”

Future Implications

The investigation’s outcome could lead to further inspections or modifications to the backup power-control units in other Boeing 737 Max aircraft to prevent similar occurrences. The FAA, along with Boeing and the NTSB, will ensure that any necessary corrective actions are implemented swiftly and effectively.

Reassurance to Passengers

The FAA, Southwest Airlines, and Boeing are committed to maintaining the highest safety standards and are taking all necessary steps to address the issue. Passengers can be assured that safety remains the top priority for all parties involved. The proactive approach in handling this incident reflects the aviation industry’s dedication to continuous improvement and safeguarding the well-being of passengers and crew.

As the investigation continues, the FAA will provide updates on any findings and actions taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. The aviation community will be closely watching the results of this investigation to ensure that lessons learned contribute to the ongoing enhancement of aircraft safety protocols.