In response to a panel blowout during an Alaska Airlines flight, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has directed airlines to ground over 170 Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft for inspections. The emergency airworthiness directive, issued on Saturday, will impact approximately 171 planes worldwide, including those operated by U.S. airlines.

Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 experienced a pressurization issue mid-flight, leading to an emergency landing. No serious injuries were reported among the passengers. The incident occurred shortly after takeoff from Portland, Oregon, and the flight was destined for Ontario, California. Images and videos shared on social media displayed a significant hole in the side of the Boeing 737 Max 9, with passengers utilizing oxygen masks.

Alaska Airlines, which possesses a fleet of more than 60 of these aircraft, has announced the immediate grounding of its Boeing 737 Max 9 planes. United Airlines, the largest operator of the model in the U.S., anticipates grounding a number of its 80 Boeing 737 Max 9 planes for inspections. Some of United's aircraft had recently undergone routine assessments.

The FAA has set an estimated inspection time of four to eight hours per plane. The directive applies to U.S. airlines and carriers operating within U.S. territory. Efforts are being made to ensure the safety and airworthiness of these aircraft, with the inspections carried out as a precautionary measure.

Boeing, the manufacturer of the 737 Max 9, delivered the plane involved in the incident to Alaska Airlines late last year. Investigations into the specifics of the panel blowout are expected to be conducted to determine the root cause and prevent any future occurrences.

As this is a developing story, further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.