Boeing has announced plans to make design changes to prevent future midair cabin panel blowouts like the one that occurred on an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9 flight in January. The incident resulted in the grounding of the MAX 9 and led to a series of crises for the aircraft manufacturer, including a criminal investigation and the departure of key executives.
During a National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigative hearing in Washington, DC, Boeing senior vice president Elizabeth Lund revealed that the company is working on design changes to the door plug system on the aircraft. These changes are aimed at preventing a repeat of the Alaska Airlines incident and ensuring the safety of passengers and crew.
The NTSB released 3,800 pages of factual reports and interviews related to the ongoing investigation, shedding light on issues within Boeing’s manufacturing and inspection processes. The hearing also touched on concerns raised about Boeing’s factory culture and alleged retaliation against whistleblowers.
Boeing executives testified during the hearing, acknowledging defects in fuselages delivered by supplier Spirit AeroSystems prior to the Alaska Airlines incident. The executives also discussed the challenges of ensuring quality despite a heavy workload and personnel shortages.
The NTSB is reviewing multiple issues in relation to the 737 MAX, including manufacturing processes, safety management, and FAA oversight. Boeing has committed to implementing significant quality improvements and reiterated its commitment to safety.
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