Following recent fatal plane crashes across the world, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is sending an important message to the aerospace giant Boeing.
Besides the FAA reminder, Boeing has been receiving pressure over safety practice improvements after numerous incidents linked to the 737 Max, especially with last year's case of Alaska Airlines 737 Max's panel falling off during flight. The aerospace manufacturer was revealed to have made an aircraft with critical structural weaknesses.
AP News reported that Federal Aviation Administration head Mike Whitaker demanded a huge change in the cultural setup at Boeing, which says that safety and quality are well above profit lines.
Whitaker reflected on the decision last year to ground all 737 Max planes with similar door panels following an earlier incident that caused worry. As part of this effort, the FAA increased its inspections in Boeing's factories, limited 737 production, and required the company to submit a comprehensive plan to resolve the manufacturing defects. Boeing has since made progress, but Whitaker believes the company needs to make deeper, lasting changes in its corporate culture.
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The FAA administrator stressed that the way Boeing would have to view safety and quality is a continuous process rather than just short-term fixes. The company is improving every day, with more focus on employee engagement and training. Whitaker, however, emphasized that that is not something that will correct the situation quickly.
Boeing should continue its efforts on safety at all levels of operation, which can only be assured through a long-term commitment from both the company and regulatory bodies.
Boeing Undergoes Major Changes
In response to the increasing criticism, BBC earlier revealed that Boeing already reported a number of steps it has taken to correct the problems, including bolstering protections for employee confidentiality and increasing training for mechanics and quality inspectors. The company also said that the defects in its 737 fuselages, made by Spirit AeroSystems, a major supplier, were declining. All these indicate that Boeing is keen on enhancing its safety and quality standards.
As NTSB continues investigations into the Alaska Airlines incident, more problems resurface. Bolt fasteners attached to the door panel were reported not to be replaced after completion of factory work which helped create the mishap.
Boeing can't get respite from allegations and FAA vows to look through all recommendations suggested by NTSB so it doesn't face similar issues of oversight in the future.
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