The numerous breakdowns with Boeing aircraft are making passengers anxious. Some would prefer to rebook on a different type of aircraft. But is that even possible? And where do you actually find out which jet you are flying with?
When a part of the fuselage of the Boeing 737-9 Max broke off on January 5th, creating a gap in the aircraft, none of the 170 passengers were injured. By a lucky coincidence: the corresponding row of seats remained empty. And yet, everyone who heard the news probably imagined: What if?
The feeling of uncertainty is exacerbated by the reports that followed: In other Boeing aircraft, inspectors discovered loose fasteners in the same place. An employee of a supplier company found incorrectly drilled holes in the window frames of another 50 Boeing jets. And now it turns out: The attachment to the accident aircraft was not only loose, individual bolts were completely missing. That can make you feel uneasy.
But can you, as a passenger, avoid having to fly in a Boeing?
If you’re not prepared to change your mind at the gate, you can’t rule it out completely. Airlines are free to spontaneously provide another aircraft.
When booking, you can check whether you are flying in a Boeing
However, it is often indicated when booking which aircraft you will be flying with. If the aircraft type is not specified on the booking page, you can search for the respective flight on the website or (English) and the types are listed there.
Anyone who is already standing at the gate but is not an aircraft expert and, looking out of the waiting area, wonders what type of aircraft is currently rolling in can use the website. There you can specify the airport and see all the flights that will soon be taking off from there. The aircraft type is there.
At that moment, the anxious passenger could of course refuse to board, but he won’t get his money back – even if the airline provides a different type than announced. The airfare is for transport from A to B in a specific time, not for a specific aircraft.
So you can’t really rule out a flight with Boeing, but you can certainly reduce the likelihood when booking.
Source: Stern
