Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun, along with other top company leaders, is set to meet with the Federal Aviation Administration to discuss and present a quality improvement plan. This plan aims to showcase better staff training and production practices at Boeing’s factories. The meeting comes after a concerning incident involving a new 737 Max 9 aircraft earlier this year.
Following a near-catastrophic blowout of an airplane door panel on the 737 Max 9, the FAA ordered Boeing to come up with a quality improvement plan within 90 days. Federal safety investigators discovered that bolts were missing, which led to the door panel issue. As a response, Boeing has slowed down production of the 737 Max until the FAA is satisfied with the quality control improvements.
The crisis has severely impacted Boeing’s reputation and forced the company to address issues with federal scrutiny. This situation has also resulted in delays in aircraft deliveries, affecting airline customers like United and Southwest. Boeing’s Chief Financial Officer Brian West has mentioned that the company is expecting a cash burn instead of generating revenue this year.
While Boeing is set to present its 90-day plan during the meeting with the FAA, company executives are aware that this plan will not solve all the issues immediately. Brian West emphasized that the plan is not a finish line, indicating that more work will be needed to address the underlying problems.
Boeing’s update is expected to outline enhancements in staff training, including simplified instructions for mechanics and improved tool availability. The reduction of “traveled work,” which involves tasks being done out of sequence, will also be highlighted. Additionally, the company will explain its implementation of factory “stand-downs” to discuss potential improvements with employees.
Boeing’s upcoming meeting with the FAA and the presentation of its quality improvement plan are crucial steps in addressing the recent safety concerns and production issues. The company’s ability to demonstrate real progress in staff training and production practices will be essential in rebuilding trust with regulators, airlines, and passengers.