New Boeing Whistleblower Warns About Substandard Manufacturing On 787 Jets

In 2023, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) faced a surge in whistleblower complaints against Boeing, primarily triggered by issues with the 787 Dreamliner. Richard Cuevas, an airplane mechanic, raised alarm bells after witnessing substandard manufacturing practices at Spirit Aerosystems, a Boeing partner. He reported critical drilling and sealant problems on the 787's forward bulkheads, which could compromise flight safety by affecting power and air pressure. Despite Cuevas's efforts to raise concerns through proper channels, he was fired, sparking further controversy. Boeing has responded, claiming that investigations found no safety threats, but the saga continues to raise questions about Boeing's handling of aircraft safety and whistleblowers' rights.

The Federal Aviation Administration received more than eleven times as many Boeing whistleblower complaints in the first five months of this year as it did the whole year prior. The first rise in whistleblowers occurred...