`` This settlement with the FAA will allow us to focus on safety going forward , rather than on issues that are now behind us and that have already been addressed , '' Southwest Airlines said in a written statement . Fine will double unless Southwest completes additional safety measures within a year . Investigation found Southwest flew the aircraft without checking for fatigue cracks in fuselages . FAA documents : Aircraft flew for six months after inspection deadlines passed . Southwest happy to have settled ` ` all outstanding issues with the FAA ''
Fine will double unless Southwest completes additional safety measures within a year . Investigation found Southwest flew the aircraft without checking for fatigue cracks in fuselages . FAA documents : Aircraft flew for six months after inspection deadlines passed . Southwest happy to have settled ` ` all outstanding issues with the FAA ''