Who is suing Boeing over the Alaska Airlines door plug incident?

Captain Brandon Fisher, the pilot in command of the affected Alaska Airlines flight, is suing Boeing.

What was the outcome of the NTSB investigation into the Boeing 737-9 incident?

The NTSB found Boeing's failure to adequately train and oversee factory workers was the probable cause.

Is there a criminal investigation into Boeing related to the door plug blowout?

Yes, the Department of Justice opened a criminal investigation into Boeing's conduct, which is ongoing.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Pilot Sues Boeing After Door Plug Blowout

Pilot Sues Boeing After Door Plug Blowout

6 Jan

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Summary

Pilot alleges Boeing falsely blamed crew for 2024 door plug incident.
Boeing faces a $10 million lawsuit from the captain of the affected flight.
Criminal investigation into Boeing's conduct remains ongoing as of January 2026.

Pilot Sues Boeing After Door Plug Blowout

Captain Brandon Fisher, who commanded the Alaska Airlines flight that suffered a mid-air door plug blowout in January 2024, has filed a $10 million lawsuit against Boeing. Fisher alleges that the aircraft manufacturer attempted to scapegoat him by falsely claiming the flight crew made errors during the incident. This legal action follows a National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation that primarily faulted Boeing for inadequate oversight of its factory workers.

The NTSB's findings in June 2025 identified Boeing's failure to provide adequate training and guidance as the probable cause for the door plug detachment. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had also proposed a $3.1 million fine against Boeing in September 2025 for related safety violations. Despite these findings, Boeing's initial response suggested improper maintenance or misuse by others, which Fisher claims was a "reprehensible and inaccurate statement" aimed at him.