Boeing is doubling down on its defense of the 787 Dreamliner’s safety, claiming no signs of fatigue cracks in older jets—just days before a high-stakes U.S. Senate hearing on the company’s safety culture. But a whistleblower’s explosive allegations are casting shadows over the aerospace giant’s claims. Let’s unpack the turbulence.
‘Zero Fatigue Findings,’ Says Boeing
On Monday, Boeing officials revealed that nearly 700 in-service 787 jets showed no structural fatigue after heavy maintenance checks. Steve Chisholm, Boeing’s chief engineer, stated all data was shared with regulators, insisting the jets are safe.
Whistleblower Sounds the Alarm
Quality engineer Sam Salehpour, set to testify Wednesday, claims Boeing skipped critical steps—like properly filling gaps between parts—which could lead to ‘premature fatigue failure.’ He even alleged workers ‘jumped on plane sections’ to force alignment. The FAA is now investigating.
Flashback to Earlier Flaws
This isn’t Boeing’s first 787 headache. In 2021, manufacturing flaws led to halted deliveries, and the jet’s specs—like gaps ‘the thickness of a human hair’—are back under scrutiny. Boeing denies improper assembly practices, but critics demand independent verification.
What’s Next?
With the Senate hearing looming and the FAA digging deeper, all eyes are on whether Boeing can rebuild trust after January’s 737 MAX blowout. For now, travelers and investors alike are buckling up for a bumpy ride.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com