The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating claims by a Boeing engineer, Sam Salehpour, who says sections of the fuselage of the 787 Dreamliner are improperly fastened together and could break apart mid-flight. Salehpour detailed his allegations in interviews with The New York Times and documents sent to the F.A.A. Boeing has acknowledged that manufacturing changes were made to how the fuselage sections are fitted and fastened together, but the company insists there is no impact on the durability or safety of the airframe. The company has conducted extensive testing and states that it is not an immediate safety of flight issue.
Boeing has expressed confidence in the 787 Dreamliner and has refuted Salehpour’s claims regarding structural integrity. The company is currently conducting complex analysis to determine if there may be a long-term fatigue concern for the fleet in the future. Boeing emphasizes that the aircraft’s quality and long-term safety have been ensured through comprehensive work. Salehpour’s allegations have placed additional scrutiny on Boeing, which has faced challenges since a door panel blew off a 737 Max jet, prompting a criminal investigation by the Justice Department.
Senator Richard Blumenthal is planning to hold a hearing with Salehpour on Capitol Hill to address the concerns raised by the engineer. Blumenthal has criticized what he perceives as an absence of safety culture at Boeing, where profit is prioritized over everything else. Boeing has had a history of issues with the Dreamliner, including battery problems that led to temporary groundings. Additionally, concerns about manufacturing practices at the company’s South Carolina plant have been raised by whistleblowers.
The Dreamliner’s innovative use of composite materials instead of traditional metals has raised questions about the long-term durability of the aircraft. Composites are lighter but have lesser known endurance capabilities under stress. Salehpour claims he was retaliated against for raising concerns about shortcuts in the manufacturing of the fuselage. Boeing denies any retaliation against workers for speaking up and emphasizes its commitment to safety. The F.A.A. is taking a hard line against Boeing after the recent Alaska Airlines incident, ensuring the company commits to real and profound improvements.
In its response to the allegations, Boeing maintains confidence in the 787 Dreamliner’s structural integrity and safety. The company assures that any potential long-term issues regarding fatigue will be comprehensively analyzed. Salehpour’s concerns have heightened scrutiny on Boeing, which has faced previous issues with the Dreamliner and manufacturing practices. The F.A.A. is conducting a thorough investigation and has interviewed Salehpour. The agency remains committed to holding Boeing accountable and ensuring that foundational changes are implemented to improve safety practices at the company.
