Texas Attorney General Investigates Boeing Supplier Spirit AeroSystems Over Quality Concerns
The Texas Attorney General has launched an investigation into Spirit AeroSystems Holdings, a key supplier for Boeing, particularly for its B737 MAX program. This move comes after incidents raising serious quality control issues, most notably an incident in January where a door plug on an Alaska Airlines B737-9, one of the aircrafts fitted with fuselages by Spirit AeroSystems, blew out post-takeoff.
In a detailed request issued on March 28, the Texas Attorney General’s office has demanded a comprehensive range of documents from Spirit AeroSystems. The Wichita, Kansas-based aerospace manufacturer is required to submit records by mid-April, focusing on manufacturing defects and the company’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) commitments. There’s a concern these commitments might be affecting Spirit AeroSystems’ manufacturing quality.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton emphasized the critical nature of these potential risks, stating, “The potential risks associated with certain airplane models are deeply concerning and potentially life-threatening to Texans.” He assured that stringent actions would be taken against any compromises on passenger safety standards.
The scope of the investigation includes documents related to manufacturing defects, particularly issues like mis-drilled aft pressure bulkhead holes and any communication regarding these defects with investors and Boeing. Additionally, the inquiry seeks insight into the company’s DEI policies, questioning whether these have impacted product quality or compliance with manufacturing standards.
The notice also delves into the company’s handling of whistleblowers and requires documentation on various company practices, including changes in inspection procedures, corrective measures post-probation by Boeing around 2018, and the effect of layoffs on employee demographics.
With significant operations in Texas, including MRO facilities in Dallas, Spirit AeroSystems faces serious implications if it fails to comply with the Attorney General’s request. The deadline set for the submission of the required documents is April 17, highlighting the urgency and seriousness with which the Texas authorities are pursuing this investigation.
This probe underscores the growing scrutiny on aerospace manufacturers to uphold the highest standards of safety and quality, reflecting broader concerns over the integrity of the aviation supply chain and the importance of regulatory oversight in ensuring passenger safety.