Boeing has been penalized by United States investigators for disclosing details of an investigation into a 737 MAX mid-air incident, leading to the involvement of the US Department of Justice (DOJ). This has prompted Boeing to issue an apology for its actions.
The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) accused Boeing of violating its rules by sharing confidential investigative information and speculating on potential causes of the Alaska Airlines emergency during a factory tour with journalists present.
This development highlights the strained relationship between Boeing and government agencies as the company faces potential criminal charges from the DOJ by July 7.
The NTSB emphasized that Boeing, being a long-time participant in NTSB investigations, should have been aware of the rules it violated.
Boeing will remain a party to the investigation but will no longer have access to information produced during the probe into the incident involving a door plug blowout.
Boeing will also be restricted from questioning other participants during an upcoming hearing, unlike other parties involved.
In a statement, Boeing expressed regret for overstepping the NTSB’s role in providing investigative information during a media briefing at the 737 factory in Seattle.
The NTSB’s criticism stemmed from comments made during the briefing regarding quality improvements, which were intended to demonstrate increased transparency.
These actions have raised concerns about Boeing’s conduct and its handling of the investigation into the mid-air incident.
Source from www.aljazeera.com