Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.

A recent Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) report has labeled Boeing’s safety culture as “inadequate and confusing,” spotlighting persistent issues within the company despite its efforts to amend practices after two devastating crashes in 2018 and 2019.

This critique emerged from an evaluation by a panel of experts, which highlighted a noticeable “disconnect” between Boeing’s top management and its broader workforce regarding the implementation and understanding of safety measures. Moreover, the report revealed employees’ confusion and concern over potential retaliation when reporting problems, along with a pervasive lack of awareness about safety metrics across the company.

The panel’s findings have led to a list of 50 recommendations for Boeing, urging the aerospace giant to create and enact a plan to tackle these shortcomings within six months. This plan, once developed, is expected to be shared with the FAA for review. The FAA has committed to an “immediate and thorough review” of the findings to determine the necessary actions to ensure Boeing meets the highest safety standards. They added, “We will continue to hold Boeing to the highest standard of safety and will work to ensure the company comprehensively addresses these recommendations.”

Boeing reacts:
In a statement, Boeing said, “We’ve taken important steps to foster a safety culture that empowers and encourages all employees to share their voice. But there is more work to do.”