Boeing Faces New Inquiry Over 787 Dreamliner Inspection Concerns

 

Boeing Faces New Inquiry Over 787 Dreamliner Inspection Concerns

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched a new investigation into Boeing, following the company's admission that it may not have properly inspected its 787 Dreamliner planes. The inquiry centers on potential falsification of records and inadequate electrical safeguards where the wings join the main body of certain 787 Dreamliners.

Boeing notified the FAA last month about the issue, which prompted an immediate response. The FAA is investigating whether Boeing completed the required inspections and whether employees may have falsified aircraft records. The agency will take necessary action to ensure public safety.

This development is the latest in a series of problems for Boeing, which has faced intense scrutiny in recent years. In January, an unused emergency exit door blew off a new 737 Max 9 plane shortly after take-off, leading to the temporary grounding of dozens of planes and increased regulatory oversight.

The company's reputation was severely damaged by two fatal crashes of its 737 Max planes in 2018 and 2019, resulting in the deaths of 346 passengers and crew. The crashes led to the firing of then-CEO Dennis Muilenburg.

Last month, Congress held a hearing featuring whistleblowers, including Sam Salehpour, who testified that his concerns about the 787 Dreamliner had been dismissed. Boeing has since claimed to be working to reform its corporate culture, encouraging employees to speak out about problems. The company reports a "more than 500% increase" in employee reports since January.

In an internal message, Scott Stocker, head of the Boeing 787 program, acknowledged that several employees had violated company policies by not performing required tests and falsifying records. However, Stocker downplayed the severity of the issue, stating that it did not create an "immediate safety of flight issue."

The FAA has ordered Boeing to develop an "action plan" to address concerns about planes already in service. The company will also re-inspect all 787 jets on the manufacturing line. Boeing has not commented publicly on the matter.

This new inquiry raises further questions about Boeing's safety processes and its ability to ensure the integrity of its aircraft. As the investigation continues, the FAA will take necessary action to protect the flying public, and Boeing faces another challenge in rebuilding trust and restoring its reputation.