Boeing still doesn’t know how a plane missing four bolts was sent to Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines
A 737 Max door plug blew out mid-flight, exposing gaps in Boeing’s safety procedures, sparking NTSB investigations.
Alaska Airlines Incident
The plug’s removal was undocumented, leading to missed bolt installation. NTSB criticized Boeing’s training and oversight.
Boeing's Procedural Failures
NTSB questioned Boeing’s safety systems, highlighting potential for repeated incidents. Boeing admitted existing gaps in procedures.
Safety Management Criticism
Boeing employees raised concerns about insufficient training, pressure for speed, and systemic quality control issues.
Employee Concerns
Boeing’s adoption of lean manufacturing, aimed at cost-cutting, was criticized for reducing inspections and compromising safety.
Lean Manufacturing Issues
Boeing pledged improvements, including a possible cockpit warning light for door plugs, but NTSB remains skeptical.
Boeing's Future Commitments