Watchdog Finds FAA Understaffed to Oversee United's Maintenance

A Transportation Department inspector general report says the FAA lacks enough inspectors to effectively oversee United Airlines’ maintenance, with the United Certificate Management Office understaffed for a growing 737 fleet. The audit notes partial implementation of five prior recommendations, inadequate training to assess safety data, and a reliance on virtual inspections when on-site reviews are restricted. The FAA agreed with five of six recommendations, while partially concurring on guidance about postponing inspections; United emphasizes its own safety systems and ongoing collaboration with the FAA.