Seattle, WA – Boeing Co.’s Chief Executive Officer, Dave Calhoun, expressed deep concern and determination during a companywide meeting held at its 737 aircraft factory near Seattle. Fighting back tears, Calhoun emphasized the importance of acknowledging and addressing the recent safety incident that has once again brought attention to the quality of Boeing’s manufacturing.
During the meeting, Calhoun underscored the commitment to transparency and taking full responsibility for any mistakes made. The gathering, convened to reinforce safety as the company’s top priority, was prompted by a recent incident involving a door plug ejecting from a 737 Max 9 mid-flight, causing significant damage to the aircraft. Senior Boeing leaders, including Calhoun, addressed employees at the Renton, Washington factory where the 737 single aisle is assembled. The meeting was also webcast to workers at other locations.
Calhoun, visibly moved, expressed the personal significance of the matter, mentioning his own family and urging the importance of meticulous attention to detail. The incident led US regulators to ground 171 of Boeing’s 737 Max 9 aircraft and order inspections. Fortunately, none of the 177 passengers and crew on Alaska Airlines Flight 1282, where the incident occurred on January 5, were injured when the panel detached shortly after the plane’s departure from Portland, Oregon. The company’s response to the incident and its commitment to addressing the shortcomings in manufacturing processes remain central to ongoing investigations and efforts to ensure passenger safety.
