The Federal Aviation Administration has launched an investigation into Boeing Dreamliner aircraft after the company reported that some employees had committed misconduct by falsely claiming that certain tests had been completed. The investigation is focused on whether Boeing completed inspections to confirm adequate bonding and grounding in select 787 Dreamliner airplanes and if employees falsified aircraft records. Boeing has been directed to reinspect all remaining 787 airplanes as well as create a plan to address those already in service.
Boeing’s shares closed down approximately 1% at $178.35 following news of the investigation. Boeing’s 787 program lead, Scott Stocker, sent out an email on April 29 to inform employees in South Carolina, where the 787 is assembled, of the irregularity in a required conformance test. The company discovered that several employees failed to complete required tests and instead recorded them as completed. Boeing promptly reported the issue to the FAA and is taking corrective action. Stocker stated that the misconduct did not pose an immediate safety of flight issue.
Due to supplier shortages of key parts, Boeing announced a slower increase in the production rate and deliveries of its 787 Dreamliner jets in April. A quality engineer criticized some of Boeing’s manufacturing practices on the 787 and 777 widebody programs, testifying before Congress. The Justice Department is conducting a criminal investigation into a mid-air emergency involving a Boeing 737 MAX 9 on January 5. The National Transportation Safety Board discovered missing key bolts on the plane, which Boeing had delivered months earlier, and the company believes required documents detailing the bolt removal were not created.
The investigation into the Dreamliner misconduct marks another setback for Boeing as it faces ongoing challenges and controversies. The FAA’s focus on confirming the adequacy of bonding and grounding on 787 Dreamliner airplanes, along with potential falsification of aircraft records, raises concerns about the safety and reliability of Boeing’s aircraft. Stocker’s acknowledgement of the policy violations and swift corrective actions taken by Boeing demonstrate the seriousness with which the company is addressing the issue. The impact of the investigation on Boeing’s stock price reflects investor concerns over the company’s reputation and future prospects.
Boeing’s reinspection of all 787 airplanes in production and plans for the in-service fleet will be crucial in mitigating any potential safety risks. The company’s decision to slow down production rate and deliveries in response to supplier shortages underscores the challenges faced by the aerospace industry. The criticism of manufacturing practices on the 787 and 777 programs highlights broader quality control issues within Boeing. The ongoing criminal investigation into the 737 MAX 9 mid-air emergency further complicates Boeing’s reputation and relationships with regulators.
Moving forward, Boeing must prioritize safety, transparency, and compliance with regulatory standards to regain trust and confidence in its products. The company’s response to the Dreamliner misconduct and other investigations will be closely monitored by regulators, investors, and the flying public. Addressing supplier shortages, enhancing manufacturing practices, and ensuring robust quality control processes will be essential for Boeing to navigate through current challenges and emerge stronger in the aerospace industry.
