Boeing finds itself under increased scrutiny as documents detailing the removal of a crucial part during the production of a 737 MAX 9 that failed mid-air have gone missing. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has criticized Boeing’s lack of cooperation and the absence of essential documents related to the incident. The revelation raises concerns about aviation safety and the transparency of the investigation.
Missing Documents Raise Questions: Boeing has acknowledged that it believes necessary documents concerning the removal of a key part during the production of the 737 MAX 9 were never created. The door plug incident, where the plug flew off an Alaska Airlines jet mid-flight, prompted an investigation by the NTSB. The missing documents, particularly those related to the door plug opening and closing, have led to concerns about the thoroughness of Boeing’s processes.
NTSB Criticizes Boeing’s Cooperation: NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy criticized Boeing for its lack of cooperation and failure to disclose essential documents, including information on the door plug’s handling and the names of 25 workers involved in the process. The absence of these details has hindered the investigation and raised questions about Boeing’s commitment to transparency. The NTSB emphasizes the importance of interviews with key employees to understand the sequence of events leading to the incident.
FAA’s Response and Industry Impact: Following the door plug incident, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) took action by grounding the 737 MAX 9 temporarily, restricting Boeing from increasing production rates, and demanding a comprehensive plan to address systemic quality-control issues. The incident and subsequent investigations have broader implications for the aviation industry, with a focus on ensuring safety measures and robust quality-control processes.
Boeing’s Response and Continued Investigation: Boeing’s letter to U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell acknowledges the absence of documentation related to the door plug incident. Boeing claims it provided the requested list of employee names after the NTSB’s criticism. The ongoing investigation involves NTSB investigators conducting interviews at the 737 plant, with Boeing expressing its commitment to full cooperation and transparency.
