Longtime Boeing engineer Sam Salehpour recently raised concerns about the safety of Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner and 777 jets, accusing the company of taking shortcuts in their construction.
Salehpour claimed that these shortcuts could potentially shorten the life of the planes, leading to safety issues such as mid-flight breakups. Salepour is the second employee to blow the whistle on Boeing in recent months.
Salehpour’s claims
In a virtual meeting with reporters, Salehpour emphasized that his intentions were not to see Boeing fail. He explained that he only wanted to ensure its success and prevent future crashes. He expressed concern that Boeing prioritized production goals over safety, leading to compromised construction practices.
Boeing’s response
Boeing denied Salehpour’s claims, accusing them of being inaccurate. They asserted full confidence in the safety and longevity of the 787 Dreamliner and 777 jets. The company also highlighted its commitment to safety and its policy of encouraging all employees to speak up about any concerns.
Employee retaliation
Salehpour’s case is not isolated, as other current and former Boeing employees have also reported facing retaliation after raising safety concerns. This pattern has raised questions about Boeing’s internal culture and its commitment to listening to its employees.
Regulatory response
The Federal Aviation Administration has stated that it takes all reports seriously and investigates them thoroughly. The agency’s increased oversight of Boeing comes in the wake of several safety incidents involving Boeing aircraft.
Salehpour’s allegations highlight the importance of encouraging a strong safety culture within the aviation industry. Only when people are brave enough to come forward with their concerns can the industry maintain the trust of airlines and the flying public.