After a door plug incident mid-flight led to an emergency landing at Portland International Airport three weeks ago, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grounded all Boeing 737 MAX 9 jets for investigation. However, on Friday, Alaska Airlines Flight 621 from Las Vegas to Portland made its first successful landing, marking the return of these planes to the sky.

Passengers on the flight were unaware they were traveling on a 737 MAX 9 until they noticed the aircraft mentioned on the pamphlets in front of them. Despite this revelation, most passengers expressed confidence in the crew and pilot, stating that they felt safe throughout the flight.

The first 737 MAX 9 flight departing from Seattle to San Diego was delayed, making the arrival at Portland International Airport earlier in the evening the first homecoming since the emergency landing on January 5.

It is important to note that not all 737 MAX 9 jets have been cleared for operation. The FAA has implemented a thorough inspection and maintenance process for each plane before granting permission to fly. The focus of the investigation is currently on examining the door panel that detached in the previous incident, with federal investigators trying to determine if all four necessary bolts were correctly installed.

Passengers concerned about flying on a 737 MAX 9 will have the option to change their flight without incurring any additional costs, as both Alaska Airlines and United are accommodating requests. Alaska Airlines expects to complete the inspection and maintenance process for its fleet by the end of next week.

While passengers recognized that mistakes and accidents can happen, they praised the thoroughness of the inspection process performed by airlines. They expressed confidence in the overall safety of these aircraft, considering the door plug incident as a rare and isolated occurrence.

As investigations continue, Boeing and the FAA will closely monitor the situation to ensure the safety and reliability of the 737 MAX 9 jets before allowing them back into full service.