The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) recently issued a warning to Boeing regarding its status as a party to the probe into a 737 MAX mid-air blowout. The NTSB accused Boeing of violating rules by providing non-public information to the media and speculating about possible causes without substantiated evidence. This warning came after an executive’s comments during a factory tour that released non-public investigative information.
In a letter addressed to Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun, NTSB Office of Aviation Safety Director Timothy LeBaron expressed concerns over Boeing’s actions. LeBaron mentioned that further infractions could result in Boeing losing its party status, preventing the company from participating in the investigation. The NTSB emphasized that the federal regulations and rules governing their investigations cannot be disregarded.
Boeing declined to comment directly on the letter but referred to an earlier apology issued after the NTSB announced sanctions against the company. As a result of the violations, Boeing will no longer have access to information produced during the NTSB’s probe and will not be allowed to ask questions during an upcoming hearing. The NTSB also plans to subpoena Boeing witnesses, including Elizabeth Lund, Boeing’s senior vice president of quality.
The NTSB stated that Boeing’s recent conduct would be referred to the Department of Justice (DOJ). This follows a violation of a 2021 settlement with prosecutors regarding interactions with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) prior to the 737 MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019. The DOJ confirmed that Boeing had violated the settlement, which protected the company from criminal charges related to the MAX crashes that resulted in 346 fatalities.
NTSB Director LeBaron also highlighted comments made by Boeing Chief Engineer Howard McKenzie during a U.S. Senate hearing. McKenzie’s remarks about a Southwest Airlines “Dutch roll” incident were deemed inappropriate by the NTSB. The NTSB clarified that no determination had been made regarding the incident’s cause, and the investigation is ongoing. Southwest Airlines chose not to comment on the matter.
The NTSB is actively investigating the Southwest Airlines 737 MAX involved in the “Dutch roll” incident. This event occurred during a flight from Phoenix, Arizona to Oakland, California, posing serious safety risks. The lateral asymmetric movements experienced during the flight are known as a “Dutch roll” and must be thoroughly examined to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.
Boeing’s actions regarding the 737 MAX investigation have raised concerns within the NTSB. The company’s violations of rules and regulations could result in losing its party status and facing further repercussions. The NTSB remains committed to conducting a thorough investigation into the incidents involving the 737 MAX aircraft to prevent future safety issues and uphold aviation standards.