Boeing Sees 500% Rise in Employee Safety Queries After Alaskan Airlines Incident
Boeing reported a significant increase in employee submissions regarding safety concerns in early 2024, with a six-fold or 500% rise compared to the previous year. This surge followed the Jan. 5 Alaskan Airlines incident when a panel broke off an unused door midflight on a recently manufactured 737 MAX 9 aircraft.
In response to the incident, Boeing stated that they have intensified their efforts to encourage employees to raise concerns about product and services safety, quality, and compliance. This led to a substantial increase in safety-related submissions in the first two months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, as outlined in Boeing’s third annual Chief Aerospace Safety Officer report.
The report also highlights various initiatives undertaken by Boeing to enhance safety, including a new partnership with its top labor union and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Boeing’s Chief Aerospace Safety Officer, Mike Delaney, emphasized the company’s commitment to prioritizing safety and quality in all aspects of their operations.
Following a review of Boeing’s management practices by an expert panel appointed by the FAA, concerns were raised about a “disconnect” between employees and top management regarding the company’s safety culture. The FAA subsequently grounded Boeing’s U.S. fleet of 737 MAX 9 planes and restricted the production rate until safety issues are addressed.
Boeing is collaborating with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) 751 and the FAA to establish an event review committee to address safety issues promptly and effectively. This partnership aims to ensure that hazards and concerns are identified and addressed in a fair and factual manner.
In addition to these initiatives, Boeing is working with the FAA to develop machine-learning algorithms for identifying emerging hazards and safety trends. The company is also required to respond to the Justice Department by June 13 following an announcement of violations of a deferred prosecution agreement related to previous incidents.
The Justice Department will make a decision by July 7 on how to proceed regarding potential criminal prosecution for Boeing’s role in various accidents and incidents. President Joe Biden has urged Boeing to prioritize negotiations with its workers to resolve ongoing safety concerns and ensure a beneficial outcome for all parties involved.
Overall, Boeing remains committed to enhancing safety measures and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability within the organization.
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