FAA launches new investigation into Boeing’s 787 inspections

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has initiated a fresh probe into Boeing, this time focusing on inspections concerning its 787 Dreamliner jets. CNN reported that investigators are delving into whether Boeing personnel neglected some quality inspections on its fleet of 787 aircraft, the FAA disclosed on Monday.

The investigation aims to ascertain whether the inspections were carried out as required and “whether company employees may have falsified aircraft records,” stated the FAA.

During the investigation, Boeing employees will conduct inspections on the Dreamliners awaiting delivery to airline clients and will formulate a strategy for those already in operation, the FAA added. Boeing voluntarily notified the FAA in April about potential lapses in required inspections to verify adequate bonding and grounding at the juncture of the wings and fuselage on specific 787 Dreamliner planes.

According to an internal memo from Scott Stocker, the Boeing executive overseeing the 787 programme, shared with CNN, the issue was flagged by an employee and is deemed a case of “misconduct.” He clarified that it does not pose an “immediate safety of flight issue.”

Stocker's memo outlined that the company identified “several people” violating company protocols by omitting a mandatory test while documenting the work as completed.

“We promptly informed our regulator about what we learned and are taking swift and serious corrective action with multiple teammates,” the memo underscored.

Stocker further mentioned that the company intends to commend the employee who raised the concern.

In April, a Boeing engineer publicly disclosed separate quality concerns regarding various Boeing models, including the Dreamliner. He alleged that shortcuts in the manufacturing process resulted in small gaps in the fuselage of 787s that might not be adequately filled.