An insider’s analysis

By Gabriel Bruno

Are FAA wiring installation standards adequate?

The massive grounding of American Airlines MD-80 aircraft is over a one-inch variation in the intervals at which wiring lacing cord must be tied. However, there may be other wiring issues of greater importance.

By Bart Crotty

There seems to be a pervasive 10-year cycle in which the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) seems to be both complacent and lenient regarding the oversight of airline maintenance.

Putting the flying public at risk, the relationship between airlines and regulators is too collegial – quite cozy in fact – to the detriment of safety, according to disclosures at a Congressional hearing.