FAA says no immediate plans to ground US Boeing 787 fleet after crash

The Air India Boeing 787-8 involved in the crash was bound for London Gatwick Airport when it crashed into a densely populated area shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. The aircraft was 11 years old and had completed 700 flights in the year leading up to the incident.

Duffy emphasized that there is not enough evidence to justify grounding the Boeing 787 at this time as they work with teams from both Boeing and General Electric who have traveled to India to assist in the investigation. However, he reiterated that if necessary, the FAA will follow whatever facts emerge from the investigation and prioritize safety.

United Airlines operates one of the largest fleets of Boeing 787 Dreamliners globally, with 78 aircraft across all three variants: -8, -9, and -10. American Airlines also flies 63 Boeing 787s between its -8 and -9 variants. A potential grounding would significantly disrupt their operations due to these planes' critical role in their long-haul networks.

Alaska Air Group's subsidiary Hawaiian Airlines also operates some Dreamliners but not as many as United or American. Until more information is available regarding the Air India disaster, it's unclear what actions will be taken by FAA.

Boeing has faced ongoing scrutiny over its quality control and safety record following previous controversies like those surrounding its 737 MAX model. The current situation highlights continuing concerns about its manufacturing practices despite efforts by Boeing to increase output.

It may take some time before an official cause for this latest accident is determined; however, once identified regulators worldwide can act accordingly in order protect travelers' safety.