Aeroméxico (AM, México City International) has been authorised to resume operations with its B737-9 fleet once it completes the inspections approved by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). However, a set date has yet to be established, the carrier told ch-aviation.

Unlike other MAX 9 operators like Copa Airlines (CM, Panamá City Tocumen International), which resumed the type's commercial flights on January 25, Aeroméxico said only that the return of the type would take place “shortly.” The carrier ultimately resumed the type's operations on January 28.

The ch-aviation fleets data module shows Aeroméxico has a fleet of 154 aircraft, including five B737-700s, thirty-three B737-8s, thirty-five B737-800s, nineteen B737-9s, eight B787-8s, twelve B787-9s, thirteen ERJ 190-100ARs, and twenty-nine ERJ 190-100LRs.

This week, the FAA detailed the procedure for inspections of all B737-9s covered in its jurisdiction, and targets specific bolts, guide tracks and fittings, detailed visual inspections of left and right mid-cabin exit door plugs, retorquing fasteners, and correcting any damage or abnormal conditions. Once these inspections confirm the door plugs meet the certification standards, the jets are approved to return to commercial service.