Fake Jet Engine Parts Ground American, Southwest, United Planes as Scandal Grows

American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines are among a growing list of air carriers that have grounded aircraft in the wake of a fake jet engine parts scandal that has rocked the aviation industry. Multiple have already replaced the uncertified parts and returned their planes to service, but close to 100 planes may still be affected worldwide.

Earlier this month, news broke that British aerospace parts supplier AOG Technics had forged certification documents for dozens of parts used in the CFM56 turbofan. This is the world's most widely used jet engine, powering workhorses like the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737. The origin of the fake parts isn't yet known, but some of their destinations are: The engines of at least four airlines around the globe.