“FAA Probes Boeing Engineer’s Allegations on 787 Dreamliner Fuselage, Boeing Denies Issues and Announces Leadership Changes”
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently investigating allegations raised by a Boeing engineer regarding potential flaws in the fuselage of the 787 Dreamliner. The engineer, Sam Salehpour, who has been with Boeing for over ten years, has expressed concerns that sections of the fuselage may not be properly fastened together, posing a risk of mid-flight breakage after numerous trips. Salehpour outlined his allegations in interviews with The New York Times and through documents provided to the FAA.
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According to Salehpour, the issues arise from changes in the assembly process of the Dreamliner, particularly in how the large fuselage sections are fitted and fastened together. Due to variations in shape among sections manufactured by different suppliers, Salehpour observed shortcuts taken during the assembly process to alleviate bottlenecks. These shortcuts, he claims, have led to excessive stress on critical joints of the aircraft and the presence of drilling debris within key joints on over 1,000 planes.
In response to Salehpour’s allegations, Boeing has stated its full confidence in the safety and integrity of the 787 Dreamliner. The company asserts that Salehpour’s claims regarding the structural integrity of the aircraft are inaccurate and do not reflect the extensive efforts undertaken by Boeing to ensure the quality and long-term safety of the Dreamliner.
Salehpour’s allegations come amid heightened scrutiny of Boeing’s practices following an incident in which a door panel detached from a 737 Max jet during a flight operated by Alaska Airlines in early January. This incident raised concerns about Boeing’s manufacturing processes and quality control measures. In response, Boeing has initiated a leadership overhaul, and the Department of Justice has launched a criminal investigation into the matter.
Capitol Hill is expected to address the concerns raised by Salehpour’s allegations, adding to the broader conversation surrounding aviation safety and regulatory oversight. The 787 Dreamliner, known for its fuel efficiency, has previously encountered issues such as battery problems and quality control challenges, as well as manufacturing problems at Boeing’s South Carolina plant.
As the FAA continues its investigation into Salehpour’s claims, the aerospace industry and regulatory authorities remain vigilant in ensuring the safety and reliability of commercial aircraft.
