US FAA launches a fresh investigation into Boeing 787 inspections

On Monday, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced a new inquiry into the Boeing 787 Dreamliner following the plane manufacturer's disclosure last month that it might have omitted required inspections.

This latest investigation adds to a series of federal probes into Boeing, triggered by a mid-air incident involving one of its 737 MAX 9 jets during an Alaska Airlines flight earlier this year, which reignited safety apprehensions.

The occurrence led to the temporary grounding of numerous aircraft and compelled the company to significantly reduce production rates, while also prompting heightened regulatory scrutiny, criminal investigations, and various legal and financial challenges.

The FAA stated that Boeing is now conducting re-inspections on all 787 jets still in production.

Last month, Boeing voluntarily notified the FAA that it might have overlooked mandatory inspections to verify adequate electrical protections where the wings attach to the main body of certain 787 Dreamliners, a prominent model often utilized for international flights.

In March, CEO Dave Calhoun announced his intention to step down by year-end, marking one of the most notable departures from the company in the aftermath of the incident.

Congress recently held a hearing featuring whistleblowers, including Sam Salehpour, who testified about his dismissed concerns regarding the 787.