Boeing has made a significant move by removing the head of its troubled 737 MAX unit following the alarming mid-flight blowout incident involving an Alaska Airlines door plug in early January. The investigation revealed that the four bolts meant to secure the plug were missing, causing a gaping hole in the aircraft. This development has led to a 20% decline in Boeing's stock price since the start of the year.
The individual in question, who was in charge of the 737 MAX program, is the fifth person to hold that position. This change comes after the tragic crashes of the 737 MAX 8 planes in 2018 and 2019, resulting in the grounding of the aircraft for 20 months. The recent incident has reignited concerns about Boeing's commitment to safety.
Families of the crash victims have been vocal about holding Boeing executives accountable for their actions. Calls for public hearings and increased scrutiny on Boeing's operations have intensified. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has dispatched inspectors to the 737 Max factory in Renton, Washington, to investigate Boeing's quality control practices.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has also launched an investigation into the Alaska Airlines incident, revealing that the critical bolts were not installed at the Boeing factory. NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy has emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the plane should never have been delivered with such a crucial component missing.
As the investigations unfold and hearings are scheduled, the spotlight remains firmly on Boeing and its handling of safety protocols. The aviation industry and the public await further developments in this ongoing saga.
