Investigation of Southwest Airlines’ April 1 incident involving Boeing 737-3H4 N632SW reveals manufacturing defects

Southwest Airlines Boeing 737-3H4 N632SW (msn 27707) FLL (Bruce Drum) (hole rips open on fuselage en route, lands safely), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.

Southwest Airlines’ (Dallas) April 1 incident involving this Boeing 737-300 continues to be investigated. The investigation is uncovering quality control issues concerning the manufacturing process.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) issued a preliminary report on Monday (April 25) concerning the April 1 incident which raises new questions concerning the bonding process of the aluminium fuselages on older 737-300 aircraft.

The examination of the damaged skin showed microscopic cracks extending from at least 42 of 58 rivet holes connected to the rupture according to this report by Reuters.

Please read the full report: CLICK HERE

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This entry was posted in Southwest Airlines and tagged Southwest Airlines on April 27, 2011 by Bruce Drum.

About Bruce Drum

I have started the ultimate digital photo library of the fascinating world of airliners and airlines. The goal is to have the complete history of all airlines and the various aircraft operated. I have been photographing airplanes since 1965. Join us in this adventure.

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