Boeing HQ
Today’s key story about Boeing focuses on a strike authorization vote by the IAM and the willingness of the union to pressure the company during a period in which it has difficulties on multiple programs. A strike is the last thing Boeing needs as it tries to right the ship.
Reports following an engine fire on a UK-US flight several months ago has a recommendation from the UK AAIB to the FAA for what would likely be an airworthiness directive for 767-300ER aircraft. This incident resulted in both factual reporting and sensationalist headlines in the press today. With respect to the latter, Boeing can’t seem to catch a break from the media, who are focused on every technical incident, even when the outcome is positive.
A story on Boeing defense indicates that cultural change is coming, with defense head Ted Colbert seeking a return to engineering excellence. Similarly, a story in Flight Global asks whether Boeing is ready to turn the corner. Since the door plug blowout, which was clearly the responsibility of Boeing, it appears senior management’s focus has necessarily changed, five years after the first MAX accidents. But that took a lot longer than most observers believe it should have taken.
In good news, the company has completed its ground tests to determine what went wrong with the Starliner thrusters and helium leaks. Hopefully this will now lead to a fix and bring the astronauts home before the next SpaceX mission in August arrives with docking ports filled.
Finally, a story on the plea agreement focuses on the role and authority of the independent monitor, who should have a lot of power in the Boeing situation. The deal, as with most complex arrangements, is still being finalized before the hearing to approve the deal, with the latest revisions, before the judge next month.
Links to today’s key stories follow:
- Machinists pack T-Mobile Park in blue-collar show of force against Boeing – Seattle Times
- Aircraft accident watchdog release report following emergency landing at Prestwick Airport due to mid-air Boeing engine fire – Glasgow World
- FAA must reign in Boeing after engine fire: UK Government – Miami Herald
- Boeing defense business seeks a return to engineering roots under Colbert – Flight Global
- Boeing is closer to understanding thruster failures on its first astronaut flight with latest test – AP
- Why heightened scrutiny will help drive Boeing’s commercial recovery – Flight Global
- Boeing case puts a spotlight on plea agreement involving corporate defendants – AP
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