Former Boeing Employee Highlights Lack of FAA Oversight at Production Facility

Ed Pierson, a former Boeing employee and whistleblower, voiced concerns about the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) apparent absence at Boeing’s production facility in Renton, Washington, despite the agency’s headquarters being just a 20-minute drive away. Speaking to Politico, Pierson recounted his experience working at the facility before resigning in August 2018, ahead of two tragic crashes involving Boeing 737 Max aircraft.

The first incident, a Lion Air flight in October 2018, resulted in the death of all 198 onboard, followed by an Ethiopian Airlines crash in March 2019 that killed 157 people. Pierson disclosed that he had previously alerted Boeing, the FAA, and three government agencies about production issues but was disregarded.

In January, a door plug on an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 dislodged mid-flight, reviving safety concerns but resulting in no injuries. Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun described the incident as a “quality escape,” emphasizing the need to examine inspection processes and work quality.

Pierson criticized the chaotic environment at the Renton facility and the lack of sufficient FAA oversight. He highlighted the severe understaffing in monitoring the world’s busiest factory, given the FAA’s significant presence nearby. His comments underscore ongoing concerns about aircraft manufacturing and safety oversight.

Now serving as the executive director for the Foundation for Aviation Safety, Pierson has been vocal about the risks he perceives with the Boeing Max planes, to the extent of avoiding flying on them.

Following the Alaska Airlines incident and subsequent investigations, the FAA stated it has not authorized any production expansion for the 737 Max and is closely overseeing Boeing and its suppliers. The agency is conducting comprehensive reviews at Boeing’s Renton facility and Spirit AeroSystems in Wichita, Kansas, focusing on production, training, qualifications, and supplier activities.

Boeing responded to Politico, detailing several changes made post-crashes, including increased investment in engineering and manufacturing resources, creation of official channels for raising concerns, and enhancing its board’s aerospace and safety expertise.

This ongoing saga highlights the critical need for robust oversight and transparency in the aerospace manufacturing sector, ensuring that safety remains the paramount concern.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, yahoo.com