The United States government is reportedly considering drastic measures against United Airlines following a string of security incidents. Among other decisions, the exploitation of new routes could be suspended.

United has experienced multiple safety mishaps in recent months. Among them, a slat piece from a 757 came loose in flight, a 737 landed without its landing gear fairing, and a 777 lost one of its tires immediately after takeoff.

According to internal information from unconfirmed sources reported by Reuters news agency, the FAA has already established that United will not be able to approve and promote pilots until the audit is completed. These measures—drastic, of course—would aim to curb the growth of one of the largest airlines in the United States. The agency would thus be seeking to demonstrate to the public that the safety of commercial aviation has returned to be its priority.

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The FAA of the United States stated in a release that «it is increasing oversight at United Airlines» to ensure compliance with safety standards. «Certification activities may be allowed to continue, but future projects may be delayed,» the agency noted. The agency plans to review the airline’s processes, manuals, and facilities. Sasha Johnson, United’s Vice President of Corporate Security, stated that the FAA «will pause a variety of certification activities for an indefinite period.»

The FAA’s scrutiny raises concerns about the potential impact on the company’s operations. The agency is considering measures that could include delaying the expansion of the airline’s domestic routes or restricting flights on newly acquired aircraft.

United’s pilots’ union commented on the investigation, indicating that it is entirely standard. «Airlines undergo a program evaluation called CHEP every few years. United’s last one was in 2018. CHEP is a normal, defined, and reliable process for auditing the safety of air operators. The union and the company agree that the FAA’s scrutiny will be beneficial for all,» the union said in a statement.