Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated an investigation into Spirit AeroSystems Holdings, a key parts supplier for Boeing, over safety concerns regarding certain airplane models. The probe follows a series of high-profile air travel incidents and aims to ensure that manufacturers prioritize passenger safety. In addition to the safety investigation, Paxton’s office has also demanded documents from Spirit AeroSystems related to its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) commitments to determine if they comply with the law and if they compromise the company’s manufacturing processes.
Spirit AeroSystems, which produces fuselages for specific models of Boeing 737 jets, declined to comment on the investigations but emphasized its commitment to delivering high-quality products to all customers, including Boeing.
The investigation into Spirit AeroSystems was prompted by a safety incident involving an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 in January. The aircraft experienced a door plug blowout shortly after takeoff, resulting in a depressurization that forced the pilots to make an emergency landing. An initial report from the National Transportation and Safety Board (NTSB) revealed that four bolts were missing from the door plug, suggesting an oversight during repair work conducted by Spirit AeroSystems at the Boeing plant.
Following the incident, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) opened a criminal investigation into the blowout. Although Alaska Airlines stated that it is fully cooperating with the investigation and does not believe it is a target, DOJ investigations are standard in such cases.
Boeing admitted in a letter to Senator Maria Cantwell that it could not locate any documentation regarding the work performed on the door panel of the Boeing 737 Max assembly line in Renton, Washington. Boeing executive Ziad Ojakli stated that the company’s “working hypothesis” was that the required documents were not created during the opening of the door plug. The NTSB criticized Boeing for its lack of cooperation, stating that the company had refused to identify employees who worked on the door panels and failed to provide necessary documentation.
In response to these safety concerns, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) gave Boeing 90 days to address quality-control issues and meet safety standards. FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker emphasized the need for “real and profound improvements” and stated that Boeing would be held accountable throughout the process.
Boeing has faced a series of problems with its Max jets in recent years. In 2020, the company reported issues with fittings in the tail section and improperly drilled fastener holes in the fuselages of some 737 Max models. While these defects were not immediate hazards for planes already in service, they could potentially delay the delivery of new jets.
The recent investigation into Spirit AeroSystems and the ongoing scrutiny over safety issues have prompted leadership changes at Boeing. CEO David Calhoun announced his plan to step down by the end of the year, citing the door plug blowout as a “watershed moment.” He emphasized the need for humility, transparency, and a total commitment to safety and quality within the company. Other immediate leadership changes include Larry Kellner stepping down as board chairman and Steve Mollenkopf taking his place.
Amidst the investigations and leadership shake-up, Boeing has been in talks to acquire Spirit AeroSystems. The companies believe that their integration would enhance aviation safety, improve quality, and benefit customers, employees, and shareholders. However, no deal has been finalized yet.
The outcome of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s investigation into Spirit AeroSystems and Boeing’s response to the FAA’s demands will be crucial in determining the future of both companies. As passenger safety remains a top priority, it is essential for manufacturers to address any potential risks and ensure compliance with safety regulations. The aviation industry and its stakeholders will closely monitor the developments in this ongoing investigation.
