Delta to inspect MD-80s

By Charles Edwards

Atlanta, GA – Atlanta-based Delta Airlines and other air carriers have to once again inspect their MD-80 aircraft. But this time, officials say it won't mean major flight cancellations for passengers.

The Federal Aviation Administration has told airlines to make sure wings on their MD-80 aren't cracked. Kathleen Bergen is a FAA spokesperson.

BERGEN: So within the next 2 years, we are requiring the airlines to detect this cracking and to make any necessary repairs.

No air carrier operates more MD-80s than American and Atlanta-based Delta. Earlier this year, both airlines cancelled hundreds of flights after the FAA wanted to inspect MD-80 maintenance records. This time will be different says Delta spokesperson Kent Landers.

DELTA: There will be no customer impact related to this. This is a standard part of our business and it's a part of our business that will be completed in the next 24 months.

An American Airlines spokesperson also says the latest inspection shouldn't cause problems.