WASHINGTON- During an extensive safety discussion held at FAA Headquarters on Tuesday, FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker conveyed to senior Boeing officials that the aircraft manufacturer must formulate a comprehensive action plan to address its pervasive quality-control issues, aligning with FAA’s unwavering safety standards.
Administrator Whitaker emphasized to Boeing the expectation of presenting the FAA with a thorough action plan within 90 days.
FAA 90 Days Ultimatum to Boeing
“Boeing must commit to real and profound improvements,” stated Administrator Whitaker after meeting with Boeing Chief Executive Officer President Dave Calhoun and his senior safety team. “Making foundational change will require a sustained effort from Boeing’s leadership, and we are going to hold them accountable every step of the way, with mutually understood milestones and expectations.”
This plan should incorporate the forthcoming outcomes of the FAA production-line audit and the latest findings from the expert review panel report mandated by the Aircraft Certification, Safety, and Accountability Act of 2020.
The action plan should encompass measures outlining Boeing’s efforts to advance its Safety Management System (SMS) program, a commitment made in 2019.
Additionally, Boeing must integrate its SMS program with a Quality Management System, ensuring consistent rigor and oversight are extended to the company’s suppliers. This integration aims to instigate a measurable, systemic transformation in manufacturing quality control.
“Boeing must take a fresh look at every aspect of their quality-control process and ensure that safety is the company’s guiding principle,” emphasized Administrator Whitaker.
FAA Inspection and Audit
On February 12, Administrator Whitaker visited Boeing’s factory floor in Renton, Washington, to inspect the 737 production line and engage with Boeing engineers, mechanics, and other personnel to gain insights into quality control processes.
Additionally, the Administrator visited the Alaska Airlines (AS) headquarters to discuss the incident involving the left mid-cabin door plug on Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 that occurred on January 5.
As part of its response to ongoing concerns, the FAA has halted the production expansion of the Boeing 737 MAX. The FAA is actively exploring the potential involvement of a third party for overseeing Boeing.
Furthermore, the agency is in the final stages of completing an enhanced oversight audit of Boeing’s production and manufacturing quality systems. An investigation into Boeing’s alleged noncompliance is also underway.
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