FAA Defends Boeing Oversight Amid Senate Scrutiny
The head of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Michael Whitaker, faced intense questioning from lawmakers over the agency’s oversight of Boeing during a Senate hearing. Whitaker revealed plans to increase the number of FAA inspectors at Boeing’s factories following recent safety concerns. The FAA aims to boost the inspector count at Boeing’s 737 Max assembly plant in Renton, Washington, from 11 to 13, and place a total of 55 inspectors at Boeing and its suppliers’ facilities by year-end, up from the current 46.
The push for increased oversight follows a January incident involving an Alaska Airlines 737 Max, which left Boeing’s facility missing key bolts, leading to the loss of a panel during flight. This incident highlighted ongoing manufacturing and quality control issues at Boeing, drawing further scrutiny from lawmakers.
Whitaker acknowledged that the FAA’s oversight has been too reactive in the past, stating the agency is now focusing on real-time risk management and tighter control over Boeing’s production processes. Additionally, Whitaker emphasized the need to prevent “regulatory capture” by rotating inspectors and executives to maintain objectivity.
Senators raised concerns about Boeing’s safety culture, citing an internal survey revealing that factory workers felt pressured to prioritize speed over quality. Boeing responded, stating it has implemented measures to enhance safety management and foster a culture where employees are encouraged to voice concerns.
The FAA continues to closely monitor Boeing’s operations to ensure safe manufacturing practices.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, bloomberg.com, yahoo.com