American Airlines Flight 3128, traveling from Milwaukee to Dallas/Fort Worth, made an unexpected stop in Tulsa on March 24 due to a mechanical problem. The Airbus A320-200 aircraft, one of the oldest in American Airlines’ fleet, had been in the air for less than two hours when the issue occurred. As a result, the crew decided to divert the plane to Tulsa International Airport for safety.

The aircraft registered N650AW, touched down without incident. Upon landing, American Airlines grounded the plane for inspection by their maintenance team. Passengers were reassigned to different flights. Although the plane was old, no damage was reported, and it was taken out of service for routine checks.

American Airlines operates a significant number of Airbus A320s, with an average age of 24 years. The airline’s fleet relies on regular maintenance to ensure safety and reliability, particularly for older aircraft. Fortunately, Tulsa International Airport is a vital hub for the airline’s maintenance operations, housing one of the largest aviation repair bases in the world.

Tulsa’s American Airlines Tech Ops facility has been operational since 1946 and supports the airline’s maintenance, repair, and overhaul operations. It handles everything from routine maintenance to complex engine overhauls. The base employs over 5,000 people, including more than 3,200 aviation technicians. It services around 400 aircraft each year.

Recently, the State of Oklahoma invested $22 million to upgrade the facility. This follows an earlier investment in the engine shop and the ongoing $350 million improvement project by American Airlines. These upgrades will enhance the facility’s ability to maintain a safe and reliable fleet while creating more jobs in the area.

American Airlines continues to prioritize safety and service. The airline’s fleet, while aging, remains well-maintained thanks to extensive investments in its maintenance infrastructure.

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