Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun faced a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Subcommittee on Investigations, addressing safety concerns at Boeing, particularly in light of recent incidents and past tragedies involving the 737 Max aircraft. Calhoun’s appearance before the Senate follows a series of high-profile safety lapses and whistleblower allegations against the company.
Calhoun’s testimony came after a panel blew out of a Boeing 737 Max during an Alaska Airlines flight in January, prompting renewed scrutiny of Boeing’s safety practices. This incident, coupled with the history of two fatal 737 Max crashes, led to a charged atmosphere with relatives of crash victims present in the room.
Senator Richard Blumenthal, a long-time Boeing critic and chair of the subcommittee, opened the hearing by acknowledging the families of the victims and a Boeing whistleblower who recently died by suicide. Blumenthal emphasized the need for transparency and accountability from Boeing.
Calhoun admitted to cultural shortcomings within Boeing and expressed regret for the company’s safety lapses. He emphasized Boeing’s efforts to improve its safety culture, including slowing production, encouraging employee whistleblowing, and appointing a retired Navy admiral to lead a quality review. Calhoun defended the company’s safety culture and outlined ongoing efforts to strengthen safety and quality.
Despite these assurances, skepticism remains. Blumenthal pointed out that Boeing had previously promised to overhaul its safety practices following the 2018 and 2019 Max crashes, promises that were not fully realized. This hearing is seen as a crucial step for Boeing to regain public trust.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has instructed Boeing to address its safety issues before resuming regular manufacturing. This directive comes as Boeing faces ongoing federal probes, including an investigation into falsely documented titanium parts in its supply chain and substantial damage to a Southwest Airlines 737 Max due to a mid-flight control issue.
