Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun faced a barrage of criticism from US senators on Tuesday during a hearing focused on the company's troubled safety record. The senators' attacks overshadowed Calhoun's apology to the families of those who died in the two Boeing 737 MAX crashes of 2018 and 2019, as well as his acceptance of responsibility for a separate mid-air incident in January of this year. The hearing served as a platform for senators to express their outrage over the repeated safety issues that have plagued Boeing in recent years.
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They pointed to the MAX crashes, which claimed the lives of 346 people, as a glaring example of the company prioritizing profits over safety. Senators also raised concerns about recent whistleblower allegations regarding faulty parts being installed on Boeing planes, potentially leading to catastrophic events. Calhoun attempted to defend Boeing's current safety culture, insisting that the company is taking comprehensive actions to address past mistakes and strengthen quality control. He highlighted the changes implemented after the MAX crashes, which involved a lengthy grounding of the aircraft and significant design modifications.
However, Calhoun's assurances fell on deaf ears for many senators. They expressed skepticism about Boeing's commitment to safety, citing a perceived lack of concrete action following previous promises made in the wake of the MAX tragedies. Senator Richard Blumenthal, who spearheaded the hearing, emphasized that empty promises are not enough to regain public trust. He stressed the importance of the hearing in holding Boeing accountable and ensuring that safety remains the top priority.
The ongoing scrutiny from US lawmakers adds another layer of pressure to Boeing as it navigates a challenging period. The company is not only grappling with regaining public trust but also faces potential legal repercussions from the Department of Justice, which is considering whether to prosecute Boeing for violating the terms of a settlement reached after the MAX crashes. Calhoun's appearance before the Senate comes as Boeing prepares for a leadership change. The company announced that he will step down as CEO by the end of the year, with a successor yet to be named. The hope is that new leadership can usher in a fresh era for Boeing, one that prioritizes safety and restores public confidence in the aerospace giant.