Boeing is facing safety concerns as a Senate subcommittee opens an investigation into the safety of its jetliners, intensifying worries about the company’s aircraft. The focus is primarily on the fuselages of two of its largest planes, with a whistleblower warning that panels on one of the planes could potentially break apart during flight. Boeing has defended the integrity of its fuselages, emphasizing the structural soundness of the 787 Dreamliner’s carbon-composite skin and addressing allegations of excessive force applied during assembly that could lead to fatigue or cracking.
Two Boeing engineering executives provided detailed explanations of how fuselage panels are assembled, highlighting the meticulous process to ensure a secure fit. They reassured the public by stating that comprehensive testing has shown no signs of fatigue in the carbon-composite structure of the 787 plane despite concerns raised by the whistleblower. Additionally, cracks have been found in metallic parts, prompting inspection guidelines and reassurances of the overall safety of Boeing’s aircraft.
The whistleblower, Boeing engineer Sam Salehpour, raised alarm about safety issues on the assembly line, resulting in an investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration and ongoing scrutiny of Boeing’s safety protocols. Salehpour’s claims have reignited a discussion about the company’s safety practices, with Boeing asserting confidence in the safety of its planes while emphasizing its commitment to addressing employee concerns and maintaining a culture of safety.