In a move highlighting the ongoing fallout from the 737 MAX crashes, Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun reached out to apologize to National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Chair Jennifer Homendy. This follows the NTSB's public criticism of Boeing on June 27th for violating investigation protocol related to a mid-air incident involving an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX.
.gif)
The specific violation involved Boeing sharing non-public information with unauthorized personnel. The information reportedly contained speculation about potential causes of the in-flight issue. Homendy informed Reuters that the NTSB had previously alerted the Department of Justice (DOJ) about the incident, which coincided with the DOJ's criminal investigation into the 737 MAX crashes. Just days before Homendy's remarks, Boeing had agreed to plead guilty to a fraud conspiracy charge and pay a hefty fine to resolve the DOJ investigation.
Calhoun's apology and commitment to following proper protocol signal a potential turning point for Boeing. The company has faced immense scrutiny in the wake of the MAX crashes, which claimed hundreds of lives. The NTSB's investigation plays a crucial role in determining the cause of the accidents and ensuring future aviation safety. By interfering with the investigation, Boeing not only jeopardized the integrity of the process but also risked eroding public trust.
Calhoun's actions can be interpreted as a step towards regaining that trust. His apology acknowledges the seriousness of the violation and expresses a willingness to cooperate with regulators. However, the true test will lie in Boeing's long-term commitment to transparency and adherence to safety protocols. Only time will tell if this apology marks a genuine shift in the company's culture or simply a PR maneuver.