Boeing: US regulators fine global aircraft maker over $3.1m for ‘widespread’ safety violations

*The United States Federal Aviation Administration proposes over $3.1 million in fines against Boeing for safety violations in 737 production

Gbenga Kayode | ConsumerConnect

Following a 2024 midair door plug blowout, and hundreds of other quality-control failures linked to 737 production line, the United States (US) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed over $3.1 million in fines against Boeing.

The US aviation regulators have cited hundreds of safety violations in its 737 aircraft production lines, accusing the leading aircraft manufacturer of pressuring its own safety inspectors.

ConsumerConnect learnt the American country’s FAA, in penalty letters issued last week, affirmed said the company’s violations occurred between September 2023 and February 2024.

Diplomacy: Tensions rise as xenophobic flare-ups unsettle Nigerians, others in South Africa

The Boeing 737 passenger family has multiple models, including the original 737-100/200, the Classic series (737-300/400/500), the Next-Generation (NG) series (737-600/700/800/900/900ER), and the latest 737 MAX series (737 MAX 7, 8, 9, 10). However, the passenger capacity varies significantly by model and airline configuration, ranging from around 85 to over 230 passengers.

The US aviation regulators stated those included actions linked to the January 5 midair door plug blowout on an Alaska Airlines 737 Max 9, agency report said.

The FAA further explained that it used the “maximum civil penalty” allowed under the US Federal law.

According to the FAA, inspectors had found widespread failures in Boeing’s quality system at its 737 factory in Renton, Washington, as well as at Spirit AeroSystems’ subcontractor facility in Wichita, Kansas.

Boeing presented two planes for certification that were not airworthy, and failed to follow required quality-control procedures, the FAA revealed.

The aviation sector regulatory agency as well uncovered that a Boeing employee pressured a company safety representative to sign off on a 737 Max aircraft even though the inspector believed it did not meet Federal standards in the US.

READ ALSO Healthcare: Nigerian Doctors Resume Work, As Government Settles Outstanding Allowances

Health Alert: Some Artificial Sweeteners Linked To Faster Brain Aging –Researchers

According to FAA, such interference in regulatory affairs was a violation of rules meant to ensure inspectors remain independent from company production pressures in the country.

Boeing has 30 days to respond to the FAA’s allegations, and the proposed $3.1 million fines.

What it means for travellers

As regards the regulatory safety oversight, the FAA’s findings suggest ongoing problems with Boeing’s 737 production, an aircraft flown by major United States’ carriers.

Regulators say they are increasing scrutiny of the company, report noted.

In terms of the passenger impact, the proposed fines don’t immediately affect flight schedules, but repeated safety concerns have led to more inspections and occasional flight cancellations while planes are checked across the industry.

Meanwhile, report indicates that Boeing could contest the fines, negotiate a settlement, or accept the penalties from the FAA.

The company is already under pressure from airlines, regulators, and the US Congress to overhaul its safety culture in recent times, according to report.

Kindly Share This Story