US opens Boeing probe over possible 'falsified' 787 records

Boeing falsification investigation

The US air safety authorities have launched an investigation into Boeing over potential falsification of records related to inspections on its 787 Dreamliner aircraft. This move comes after Boeing notified the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that it may not have completed required inspections to ensure proper bonding and grounding between the wings and fuselage of certain 787 airplanes.

According to the FAA, the investigation aims to determine whether Boeing indeed conducted the necessary inspections and whether there was any falsification of aircraft records by company employees. The issue came to light when a Boeing employee reported an irregularity and subsequently, it was discovered that several individuals had violated company policies by not performing a required test but falsely recording the completion of the work.

Scott Stocker, head of the Boeing 787 program, addressed the matter in an email to staff, acknowledging the policy violations and the need for immediate review and corrective action. This revelation raises concerns about the safety culture within Boeing, with experts pointing to significant defects that may not be rectified swiftly.

This investigation adds to the string of challenges faced by Boeing, following a recent incident involving an Alaska Airlines flight where a panel on the fuselage blew out. In response to these issues, the FAA has issued a three-month deadline for Boeing to develop a plan addressing systemic quality-control issues.

Boeing's management of the 787 program has also come under scrutiny, particularly after a whistleblower testified at a Senate hearing about alleged retaliation for raising concerns about manufacturing processes that could compromise aircraft safety. An FAA advisory panel's audit earlier this year highlighted deficiencies in Boeing's safety culture, emphasizing a disconnect between senior management and other employees, along with doubts about the handling of safety complaints.

The aviation industry awaits further insights into Boeing's future leadership following the announcement by CEO Dave Calhoun about his planned departure by the year's end. With ongoing investigations and regulatory scrutiny, Boeing faces significant challenges in restoring confidence in its operations and ensuring the safety and integrity of its aircraft.