According to the FAA, Boeing took the proactive step of informing them in April about potential lapses in inspections crucial for confirming adequate bonding and grounding where the wings join the fuselage on specific 787 Dreamliner planes. Consequently, Boeing has initiated a process of reinspection for those Dreamliners yet to be delivered to airline customers. Simultaneously, the company is formulating an action plan to address the aircraft already in service.
Scott Stocker, the executive overseeing Boeing's 787 program, addressed the issue in an internal memo, underscoring that the problem was brought to light by an employee and was categorized as "misconduct," albeit not posing an immediate safety risk to flight operations. The memo highlighted that several individuals failed to comply with company policies by neglecting a required test but falsely documenting completion. Stocker emphasized Boeing's swift response, stating, "We promptly informed our regulator about what we learned and are taking swift and serious corrective action with multiple teammates."
Moreover, Stocker expressed commendation for the employee who reported the issue, signaling Boeing's commitment to upholding standards of transparency and accountability within its workforce. This stance aligns with the company's ethos of prioritizing safety and quality assurance in its operations.
This latest development comes on the heels of whistleblower allegations made by Boeing engineer Sam Salehpour, who raised concerns regarding the production processes of various Boeing models, including the 787 Dreamliner and the 777. Salehpour cited shortcuts taken to alleviate production bottlenecks, potentially compromising the integrity of the aircraft. These claims have prompted the FAA to launch a separate investigation into the alleged quality issues.
Salehpour, a seasoned Boeing employee, revealed instances of retaliation following his disclosure of concerns, including threats and exclusion from meetings. Among his raised issues was a discrepancy in the fuselage assembly of the 787, underscoring broader challenges within Boeing's manufacturing practices.
Notably, this isn't the first instance of Boeing facing scrutiny over safety concerns. In January, an alarming incident involving a blown-out door panel on a Boeing 737 Max aircraft during an Alaska Airlines flight necessitated an emergency landing. While this incident involved a different aircraft model, it underscores the imperative for stringent safety measures across Boeing's product line.
In response to these developments, Boeing has reiterated its commitment to addressing the issues raised and ensuring the safety and integrity of its aircraft. The company is cooperating fully with regulatory authorities to conduct thorough investigations and implement necessary corrective measures.
As investigations into these matters unfold, the spotlight remains firmly fixed on Boeing's commitment to upholding safety standards and the efficacy of its quality assurance processes. The outcome of these inquiries will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for the aerospace industry and the confidence of stakeholders, including airline operators and passengers, in Boeing's products.