The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is taking a hard stance against Boeing, threatening to revoke the company’s status as a party to the ongoing investigation into the 737 MAX. This comes after accusations of Boeing violating the established protocols for participating in the probe.
The situation stems from a recent Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9 incident. The plane experienced a mid-air blowout of a door plug, with investigators discovering four missing bolts. During the investigation, the NTSB found that Boeing representatives, including Chief Engineer Howard McKenzie, made public statements deemed inappropriate by the board.
McKenzie reportedly downplayed a separate incident involving a Southwest Airlines 737 MAX experiencing a “Dutch roll” maneuver. The NTSB considers such comments a violation of the agreed-upon communication guidelines, which aim to maintain a neutral and fact-based environment for the investigation.
The consequences for Boeing are significant. Losing its status as a party to the probe would mean the company would no longer have access to information gathered during the investigation. Additionally, Boeing couldn’t directly question other participants at a public hearing scheduled for August 6th and 7th. The NTSB will reportedly subpoena Boeing representatives, including McKenzie, to compel their testimony.
This isn’t the first time Boeing’s conduct regarding the 737 MAX has raised concerns. In May 2024, the Department of Justice (DOJ) accused Boeing of violating a 2021 settlement that shielded the company from criminal charges related to its interactions with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) before the two fatal MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019 that claimed 346 lives.
The NTSB’s actions strongly message Boeing that cooperation and transparency are paramount. The seriousness of the situation is undeniable. The 737 MAX crashes were tragic events, and ensuring public safety through a thorough investigation is crucial. Withholding information or making unsubstantiated claims can hinder the investigation and potentially delay the return of the MAX to full service.
This incident also raises questions about Boeing’s overall commitment to safety culture. While the company has taken steps to improve its practices following the MAX grounding, the recent actions suggest room for further improvement. Rebuilding trust with regulators, airlines, and the flying public is essential for Boeing’s future success.
The upcoming hearing in August will be a critical juncture. The aviation industry will closely watch the NTSB’s final decision on Boeing’s participation status and the information revealed during the hearing. This episode serves as a reminder of the importance of open communication and prioritizing safety throughout the investigation.
