The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating Boeing over concerns that the company may have failed to conduct required inspections on its 787 Dreamliner aircraft and potentially falsified inspection records. The focus of the investigation is on whether Boeing completed necessary inspections to ensure proper bonding and grounding where the wings join the fuselage on certain 787 Dreamliner airplanes.
Boeing notified the FAA about the issue after discovering potential irregularities, prompting the agency to open an investigation. The FAA is looking into whether Boeing employees may have falsified aircraft records in relation to these inspections.
In response to the investigation, Boeing is conducting reinspections on all 787 airplanes still within the production system and is developing a plan to address the in-service fleet. Boeing's management of the situation has involved acknowledging the issue, informing regulators, and taking corrective action.
This investigation adds to Boeing's recent challenges, including a near-catastrophic incident involving an Alaska Airlines flight in January and ongoing scrutiny of its safety culture. The company has faced criticism regarding its handling of safety concerns raised by whistleblowers and questions about the effectiveness of its safety protocols.
The outcome of this investigation, along with ongoing concerns about Boeing's safety culture and leadership, will likely have significant implications for the company's future direction and reputation within the aviation industry.
