**Boeing Quality Control Failures Uncovered by FAA Audit**
**Boeing and Spirit AeroSystems Under Scrutiny**
In Washington, Boeing workers at the Renton Municipal Airport recently completed the assembly of an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max jet. However, an FAA audit revealed significant quality control issues within Boeing and its key supplier, Spirit AeroSystems. The audit, conducted over six weeks, identified “multiple instances” where both companies failed to meet manufacturing quality control standards.
The FAA initiated the audit following an incident on an Alaska Airlines flight where a door plug panel detached midair on January 5. Although the plane managed to land safely after the incident, a preliminary investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board discovered that crucial bolts were missing from the door plug upon leaving Boeing’s factory.
The audit highlighted deficiencies in Boeing’s manufacturing processes, parts handling, storage, and overall product control. FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker discussed these findings with Boeing’s CEO, Dave Calhoun, and provided a 90-day deadline for Boeing to address these quality control issues.
Auditors visited Boeing’s facility in Renton, Washington, and Spirit’s plant in Wichita, Kansas. Interestingly, Boeing is currently in discussions to acquire Spirit AeroSystems, a move that Boeing believes will enhance aviation safety, quality, and benefit its stakeholders.
Despite the potential acquisition, Spirit AeroSystems has faced challenges in maintaining quality control standards due to the demanding production schedule set by Boeing. These recent developments shed light on the critical need for stringent quality control measures within the aviation industry.
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*Contributors: NPR’s Joel Rose reported from Washington, D.C., and Russell Lewis from Birmingham, Ala.*
