FAA Proposes $3.1 Million Fine Against Boeing for Safety Violations
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced this Friday its intention to impose a $3.1 million fine on Boeing for a series of safety violations. These include issues related to the mid-flight emergency involving an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9 in January 2024, as well as interference with the independence of safety officials.
Key Incidents and Findings
Between September 2023 and February 2024, the FAA detected hundreds of deficiencies in the quality system at Boeing’s plant in Renton, Washington, and at Spirit AeroSystems’ facilities in Wichita, Kansas.
The most serious incident occurred when an Alaska Airlines MAX 9 took off missing four essential bolts, leading to depressurization that further damaged the manufacturer’s reputation. As a result, a production limit of 38 aircraft per month was established—a restriction that remains in effect.
The FAA also stated that Boeing presented two aircraft that were not eligible for airworthiness certificates, thereby violating the rules of its own quality system.
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Internal Pressures and Safety Culture
A report reveals that a Boeing employee pressured a colleague, who was acting on behalf of the FAA, to approve a 737 MAX even though it did not meet standards. The goal was to maintain the delivery schedule.
In June, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) strongly criticized the company’s lack of training, supervision, and guidance, directly pointing to a deficient safety culture and the ineffectiveness of the FAA’s oversight.
Enhanced Oversight and Audits
Since early 2024, the FAA has maintained increased on-site oversight of Boeing’s production. An audit last year recorded 97 instances of non-compliance.
The agency continues to inspect each 737 MAX and 787 aircraft before authorizing delivery—a process that was previously delegated to the manufacturer.
However, a report by a government oversight body, published in October, warned that the FAA lacks an effective system to monitor production plants and has not resolved complaints of undue pressure on employees acting on behalf of the regulator.
Boeing’s Response
The company, which has 30 days to respond to the penalty, reported that it is reviewing the FAA’s proposal and assured that it continues to work to strengthen its safety culture and improve quality and accountability across all its operations.
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