The US FAA has permitted United Airlines to acquire new aircraft despite an ongoing safety review of the airline’s practices, allowing replacements for older planes and supporting growth plans.
FAA administrator Mike Whitaker confirmed that United can take deliveries of new aircraft, clarifying that most are one-on-one replacements for existing planes and align with the airline’s growth strategy.
In March, FAA heightened oversight over United leading to suspension of certifications and route delays; FAA personnel attended final inspections of new aircraft to ensure compliance.
United has orders for 21 A321-200NX, fifty A321-200NY(XLR)s, forty-five A350-900s, 39 B737-8s, 141 B737-9s, 167 B737-10s, and 150 B787-9s, with FAA’s review ongoing and audit by the Office of Inspector General to assess oversight actions.
