Boeing lost trust of Americans, needs strict oversight, Transportation Sec. Duffy says
Boeing Faces Trust Crisis After Series of Safety Incidents
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy expressed concerns about Boeing’s trustworthiness following a mid-air emergency in January 2024 and two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019. The Federal Aviation Administration has maintained a production cap on the 737 MAX at 38 planes per month.
Duffy emphasized the need for Boeing to regain the trust of the American people by prioritizing safety and quality in their manufacturing processes. He mentioned that tough measures would be taken to ensure Boeing implements necessary changes to improve their practices.
During a visit to Boeing’s 737 factory in Renton, Washington, Duffy met with CEO Kelly Ortberg and acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau to discuss the company’s progress in enhancing safety and quality standards. Ortberg is scheduled to testify before Congress on April 2.
Boeing acknowledged the importance of rebuilding trust and improving their organizational culture. Duffy commended the new leadership at Boeing for their efforts to make significant improvements in manufacturing practices.
On the sixth anniversary of the Ethiopian Airlines crash, Duffy highlighted the changes in the 737 MAX’s design and pilot training that followed the tragic incident. He expressed optimism about Boeing’s progress and the support they are receiving from the public.
Despite recent challenges, Duffy emphasized the importance of taking calculated risks and eventually lifting the production cap once Boeing demonstrates consistent quality improvements. However, he noted that the company is not yet ready to produce 38 MAX planes per month.
President Trump has urged the Department of Transportation to balance safety concerns with production restrictions, indicating a need for smart and strategic decision-making regarding Boeing’s operations. The company previously faced legal consequences for failing to uphold safety protocols and accurate record-keeping.
