Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun withstood a barrage of criticism during Senate hearings, as lawmakers grilled him on the company’s safety culture and recent manufacturing mishaps. Calhoun offered a heartfelt apology to the families of the 346 victims of the 737 Max crashes, acknowledging Boeing’s responsibility for the tragedies. He admitted that while the company has made progress, its culture is still not perfect and more work is needed to ensure safety and to heed whistleblowers’ warnings about nonconforming parts being used in 737 Max jets. Senators, including Josh Hawley, accused Calhoun of ‘cutting corners’ and prioritizing profits over safety. Calhoun, who is set to retire by the end of the year, defended the company’s safety record but conceded that Boeing ‘must do better’. The FAA is investigating new allegations of defective parts, and Boeing has not received a single order for a new 737 Max in two months. Senator Richard Blumenthal has suggested that there is overwhelming evidence for the US Department of Justice to take legal action against Boeing.
Key points
- Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun faced Senate scrutiny over the company’s safety culture and manufacturing issues.
- He apologized to the families of the 737 Max crash victims and acknowledged Boeing’s responsibility for the accidents.
- The FAA is investigating new allegations of defective parts in Boeing aircraft, and the Justice Department may pursue criminal charges.
- Calhoun defended Boeing’s safety record but admitted the need for improvement and is set to retire by the end of the year.
Contradictions👾Calhoun stated he is ‘proud’ of Boeing’s safety record, yet acknowledged the company’s responsibility for the crashes and the need to improve.
