A year after a structural panel failure on a Boeing 737 Max occurred during flight, the leading aviation authority in the U.S. emphasized that Boeing must undergo a “fundamental cultural shift” that prioritizes safety and quality over profit margins.
Mike Whitaker, head of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), expressed his concerns in a recent online post, indicating that his agency has additional responsibilities to enhance its oversight of Boeing.
In reflecting on the decision made last January to ground all 737 Max aircraft, which featured similar panels known as door plugs, Whitaker noted that the FAA has increased its inspection workforce within Boeing’s manufacturing facilities. Additionally, there have been restrictions placed on the production rates of new 737 units and a mandate for Boeing to devise a corrective strategy addressing its manufacturing deficiencies.
“Boeing is actively working on a comprehensive plan aimed at enhancing safety, improving quality, and effectively engaging with and training employees,” Whitaker remarked. “However, changes of this magnitude cannot be achieved in just one year. A significant cultural transformation focusing on safety and quality, above profits, is necessary. This will demand ongoing effort and dedication from Boeing and rigorous oversight from our agency.”
In response to safety and quality improvement criticisms, Boeing provided an update on initiatives taken, including addressing worker concerns while ensuring their confidentiality remains intact.
The company, which faced a halt in new 737 production during a seven-week strike last fall, mentioned enhancements in training programs for both mechanics and quality inspectors. They also revealed an updated system aimed at recognizing employees responsible for metal-stamping tasks.
Moreover, Boeing reported that it has “significantly reduced defects” in 737 fuselage components manufactured by Spirit AeroSystems, although specific figures were not disclosed. Spirit is a major supplier that Boeing is currently acquiring for $4.7 billion.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) continues its investigation into the door-plug failure on an Alaska Airlines 737 Max jet. Fortunately, although the aircraft sustained a significant hole on its side, the pilots managed to land safely in Portland, Oregon, without any serious injury incidents reported.
Following the accident, preliminary findings indicated that bolts meant to secure the panel were not replaced after maintenance conducted at a Boeing facility.
Whitaker confirmed that the FAA would consider any suggestions from the NTSB that aim to elevate the agency’s oversight capabilities. He acknowledged last summer that the level of scrutiny the FAA applied to Boeing was insufficient.
