The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently investigating allegations made by a Boeing whistleblower regarding safety and quality concerns in the production of the company’s 787 and 777 jets, as confirmed by an agency spokesperson on Tuesday.
The claims made by Boeing engineer Sam Salehpour focus on issues related to the structural integrity of the jets, including engineering problems and shortcuts taken during assembly to reduce bottlenecks. Salehpour alleged facing retaliation, such as threats and exclusion from meetings, after identifying these concerns.
Boeing paused deliveries of the 787 jet for over a year until August 2022 due to ongoing investigations into quality problems and manufacturing flaws. The company acknowledged issues with shims and skin-flatness specifications on some 787 airplanes in 2021.
The Current9:18Crisis of confidence at Boeing
Boeing has been dealing with a significant safety crisis since a mid-air panel blowout on a 737 MAX plane on Jan. 5, leading to a decrease in deliveries and a management shakeup. U.S. regulators have imposed restrictions on production as a result.
Company disputes claims
Boeing released a statement expressing full confidence in the 787 Dreamliner and dismissing Salehpour’s claims as inaccurate. The company emphasized its commitment to ensuring quality and long-term safety in its aircraft.
Salehpour’s lawyers detailed the shortcuts observed during the 787 assembly process, highlighting the stress placed on airplane joints and issues with drilling debris. Salehpour also mentioned alignment problems with the production of the 777 jet that were addressed using force.
“Voluntary reporting without fear of reprisal is essential for aviation safety,” stated the FAA. “We encourage all industry stakeholders to share information, and we thoroughly investigate all reports.”
The FAA has reportedly met with the whistleblower, who is a member of the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA) working at Boeing’s plant in Everett, Wash.
Senate hearing scheduled
U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal’s investigation subcommittee plans to hold a hearing on Boeing-related issues with Salehpour on April 17, focusing on the company’s safety culture. Blumenthal aims to have Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun testify at a future hearing.
Documentation provided by Salehpour to the FAA will be presented at the hearing. Salehpour’s lawyers emphasized that he raised valid concerns regarding the 787 program in 2021, which were allegedly overlooked by Boeing in their rush to bring planes to market.
FAA administrator Michael Whitaker has taken a firm stance on Boeing’s operations following recent safety incidents, implementing restrictions and requiring a comprehensive plan to address quality-control issues within a specified timeframe.
