FAA Probes Safety Claims on 787 and 777 Boeing Jets

In recent news, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into serious allegations made by a whistleblower at Boeing. The claims revolve around safety and quality concerns related to the production of the company’s 787 and 777 jets.

According to reports, Boeing engineer Sam Salehpour brought to light engineering issues affecting the structural integrity of these aircraft. Salehpour’s attorneys revealed that he raised concerns about shortcuts being employed during the assembly process of the 787, supposedly to alleviate bottlenecks.

This isn’t the first time Boeing has faced scrutiny regarding the quality of its aircraft. In 2021, manufacturing flaws and quality problems with the 787 led to delivery halts for over a year until August 2022, as the FAA investigated further.

Moreover, Boeing’s reputation took another hit earlier this year due to a mid-air panel blowout incident involving a 737 MAX plane, resulting in the resignation of key figures within the company, including CEO Dave Calhoun.

Specifically, Salehpour’s attorneys pointed out instances where “workers used shortcuts during the 787 assembly process that added on major airplane joints,” potentially compromising safety standards. Despite Salehpour’s warnings, Boeing allegedly prioritized speed to market over addressing these known issues.

Boeing, on its part, has vehemently denied the claims, stating full confidence in the safety of its 787 Dreamliner. The company asserts that the allegations are inaccurate and do not reflect the extensive measures taken to ensure the quality and long-term safety of its aircraft.

Following the confirmation of the FAA investigation, Boeing’s shares experienced a 2.5% decline. The FAA has already met with the whistleblower as part of their ongoing probe into these troubling allegations.

Ultimately, Boeing finds itself in a precarious position once again, grappling with serious accusations regarding the safety and quality of its aircraft. As investigations continue, the aviation industry and concerned stakeholders await further developments in this unfolding saga.