FAA Requires Boeing to Meet Milestones and Transform Safety Culture Before Production Increases

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
01/06/2024 15h42

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has outlined its expectations for Boeing's safety culture transformation before approving any production increases beyond the current cap. In response to a query regarding deadlines and milestones, the FAA emphasized the need for Boeing to demonstrate a strong commitment to safety and quality over time.

Boeing has presented an 11-page executive summary of its safety and quality plan to the FAA. The plan highlights six key performance indicators (KPIs) that focus on safety, quality, and production health. These indicators include measures of employee proficiency, rework hours, supplier shortages, and ticketing performance.

However, neither the FAA nor Boeing has disclosed specific milestones or target dates for completing future objectives. The 11-page Executive Summary provided is primarily a recounting of the actions taken to date and ongoing objectives. While internal metrics and measuring points are referenced, no public disclosure has been made regarding deadlines and durations of the program.

To regain full-rate, pre-grounding production rates and restore confidence in Boeing's Organization Designation Authority (ODA), the FAA requires assurance that all objectives have been met. Milestones, deadlines, and the duration of the program were raised with both the FAA and Boeing, but no responses have been received thus far.

The FAA emphasizes that this process entails significant systemic change and acknowledges the extensive work required. The agency's decisions regarding timing and milestones will be driven by Boeing's ability to meet the specified objectives. The FAA intends to ensure that Boeing fully implements the safety culture changes outlined in its plan by employing all available tools.

As the aviation industry closely monitors the progress of Boeing's safety transformation, the FAA remains focused on the importance of unwavering commitment to safety and quality. It is clear that meeting milestones and demonstrating lasting change are crucial factors for Boeing's return to full production rates.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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