FAA extends indefinite oversight of Boeing amid ongoing safety concerns

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced that its enhanced oversight of Boeing will continue indefinitely. This decision follows the Alaska Airlines door plug incident, marking a year since the event. Outgoing FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker emphasized that this scrutiny is not a temporary measure but a permanent change in how Boeing's manufacturing practices are monitored.

In 2024, Boeing faced numerous challenges, prompting the FAA to increase its oversight to prevent incidents similar to Alaska Airlines flight 1282, where a missing door plug caused an in-flight issue. The measures included capping 737 MAX production levels, increasing factory inspections, auditing production lines, and requiring Boeing to submit a comprehensive safety and quality control plan.

Whitaker highlighted the need for "a fundamental cultural shift" at Boeing towards prioritizing safety and quality over profits. He stated, "This is not a one-year project. What’s needed is a fundamental cultural shift at Boeing that’s oriented around safety and quality above profits. That will require sustained effort and commitment from Boeing, and unwavering scrutiny on our part."