In the past week, 13 of the jets have had
problems that resulted in three unscheduled
landings. Like the Alaska plane, they were
made by McDonnell Douglas before that company
was acquired by Boeing Corp. in a $16.3 billion
merger in August 1997.

Register Guard

-- spider (spider0@usa.net), February 28, 2000

Answers

Spider, I had some friends on that 757 that made an emergency landing in Phoenix. Word is that there were some wires touching on the coffee maker and causing some smoke. As to the M/D aircraft thats another story. Anytime that repetitive problems crop up on a series or group of aircraft that came from the same plant, red flags will fly. The sensitivity to problems from the flight crew may result in actions that would not normally be taken. Not saying this is a bad thing just human nature. But were there a serious problem with these aircraft do you think for a second that they would stay in service? Also, we are experiencing a period where every little hick-up is making the news. Thats fine, we just need to keep it all in perspective.

-- Sifting (through@the.rubble), February 28, 2000.

Sifting:

Agreed. The publicity should spur the airlines to go over their MD- 80's, at least I hope that it is. Perspective on this issue is definitely needed.

-- haha (haha@haha.com), February 28, 2000.

I don't care how many explanations they come up with. In my heart of hearts I believe this IS and embedded system problem. Too many MD-80's making emergency landings!!! This is frightening. My parents are flying back to Ohio from Florida and I'm scared to death that they might be flying on an MD-80. I haven't shared my concerns with them. I'll just pray and hope for the best.

-- Cheryl (Transplant@Oregon.com), February 28, 2000.