Boeing Investigated for Improper Fastening of Fuselages on 787 Dreamliners
Allegations of Improper Procedures and Safety Risks Surface
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is conducting an investigation into allegations made by a former Boeing engineer regarding the assembly of fuselages on the company’s 787 Dreamliner planes. The engineer claims that certain sections of the fuselages were improperly fastened together, which could potentially weaken the aircraft over time and risk midflight disintegration.
Shortcuts and High-Stress Tactics Amplify Safety Concerns
The engineer, Sam Salehpour, who worked as a Boeing quality engineer, disclosed that the company took shortcuts in meeting production targets. These shortcuts included disregarding their own procedures for ensuring proper fitting and joining of fuselage components. Salehpour also revealed instances where workers applied excessive stress to major airplane joints, concealed gaps, and rushed the manufacturing process. These actions compromised the aircraft’s durability and lifespan, according to Salehpour’s statements.
Silenced Concerns and Retaliatory Responses
Salehpour claims that his efforts to raise concerns were ignored by the company, and he faced various forms of retaliation, including threats of physical violence from a supervisor. Acting out of a genuine desire to protect the safety of Boeing’s aircraft and prevent accidents, Salehpour shared his concerns with the FAA earlier this year.
The FAA Encourages Voluntary Reporting and Ensures Thorough Investigation
The FAA, in response to Salehpour’s claims, emphasized the importance of voluntary reporting without fear of reprisal in maintaining aviation safety. The aviation authority encourages all industry professionals to share information and commits to conducting a comprehensive investigation into all reports received.
Boeing Counters Allegations and Defends the 787 Dreamliner
Boeing firmly denies the allegations made by Salehpour and expresses full confidence in the structural integrity and safety of the 787 Dreamliner. The company states that issues regarding the proper fitting and joining of fuselages were identified in 2020. Boeing temporarily ceased 787 deliveries and took almost two years to develop and gain FAA approval for a fix to address these concerns. The aviation giant claims that its thorough engineering examinations, conducted under FAA oversight, reaffirm the quality and long-term safety of its aircraft.
Testimony and Senate Investigation Ahead
Salehpour is scheduled to testify next week at the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations hearing. The letter of two senators, Richard Blumenthal and Rob Johnson, urging Boeing’s cooperation in the investigation and requesting testimony from Boeing’s CEO, David Calhoun, confirms the senators’ intent to diligently examine the allegations and related matters.
Boeing’s Efforts to Rebuild Reputation in Jeopardy
These recent allegations compound the challenges Boeing faces in repairing its tarnished reputation after a harrowing incident in January involving a 737 Max jet. Investigations following the incident revealed systemic issues and a failure to prioritize safety in the aftermath of previous fatal crashes. In response, Boeing has instituted executive leadership changes to steer the company towards a renewed commitment to safety.
FAA Deadline and Continued Scrutiny
In addition to ongoing investigations and testimonies, Boeing confronts a crucial deadline imposed by the FAA in May. The deadline requires Boeing to present a comprehensive plan to address quality control and assurance issues within its manufacturing operations.
An Experienced Engineer Calls for Authentic Change
Salehpour’s attorneys affirm the veracity of his claims and note that Boeing has implemented some changes in the 787 manufacturing process. However, they contend these efforts fall short of what’s needed to rectify the situation.
