Recently, Boeing has come under fire for allegations made by one of its engineers, Sam Salehpour, regarding the safety and quality testing of the 787 Dreamliner and 777 aircraft. Salehpour claimed that Boeing took “shortcuts” to speed up production, compromising the safety and longevity of the planes. These allegations have raised concerns about Boeing’s safety culture and the integrity of its aircraft.
Defending the Testing Process
Boeing has vehemently denied Salehpour’s allegations, stating that they are “inaccurate” and that the company stands by the safety of its planes. The company’s engineering managers detailed the rigorous stress and safety tests conducted on the 787, including 165,000 cycles of testing under various conditions. Additionally, a 300-pound pendulum was used to strike the fuselage skin, proving the durability of the aircraft.
Salehpour’s claims focused on the assembly process of the 787, particularly on the joints where pieces of the carbon composite fuselage meet. He alleged that Boeing used excessive force to join the pieces together and did not properly measure the gaps, potentially compromising the structural integrity of the plane. Salehpour’s concerns led to an investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to ensure the safety of the aircraft.
In addition to the safety concerns, Salehpour’s lawyers also accused Boeing of retaliating against him for speaking out about his concerns. They claimed that Salehpour was excluded from meetings and moved off the 787 program onto the 777 plan. These allegations raise further questions about Boeing’s commitment to transparency and accountability in addressing safety issues.
Boeing’s Continual Commitment to Safety
Boeing has a history of suspending deliveries and conducting thorough examinations of its aircraft to ensure quality and safety. The company maintains that the issues raised by Salehpour have been rigorously examined under FAA oversight and do not pose any safety concerns. Boeing’s statement reassures customers that the 787 and 777 aircraft will maintain their service life over several decades.
The allegations made by Boeing’s whistleblower have brought to light concerns about the safety practices and quality control measures within the company. As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial for Boeing to address these allegations seriously and transparently to maintain the trust of its customers and the flying public. Boeing must prioritize safety above all else to uphold its reputation as a leading aircraft manufacturer.