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Boeing continues to face intense scrutiny and production limitations following the January 5, 2024 mid-air incident involving alaska Airlines Flight 1282, wich led to a temporary grounding of the 737 MAX 9 and a broader examination into Boeing’s manufacturing quality control. As of January 25, 2026, production rates remain below pre-incident levels, and the FAA continues to oversee Boeing’s corrective actions.
FAA Oversight of Boeing
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The Federal Aviation Management (FAA) maintains heightened oversight of Boeing’s 737 MAX production and quality control processes. This oversight began following the two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019, and was significantly increased after the Alaska Airlines incident.
Detail: The FAA issued a Notice of Proposed Safety certificate Action against Boeing on December 21, 2023, alleging violations of manufacturing quality control procedures. Boeing responded to the FAA on January 8, 2024, outlining a comprehensive plan to address the identified issues. the FAA is currently reviewing Boeing’s plan and conducting independent audits of Boeing’s facilities. On January 19, 2026, the FAA announced it would not approve an increase in 737 MAX production rates untill it is indeed satisfied with Boeing’s progress on implementing the corrective action plan.
Example or Evidence: The FAA’s Notice of Proposed Safety Certificate Action details specific alleged violations, including failures in inspections and documentation related to the installation of door plugs on 737 MAX 9 aircraft.
Boeing’s Production Adjustments
Boeing has significantly adjusted its 737 MAX production rates in response to the FAA’s scrutiny and internal quality control reviews. Current production is capped at approximately 38 aircraft per month, a reduction from the company’s previous goal of 50 per month.
Detail: Boeing CEO David Calhoun announced on February 7, 2024, that the company would slow production and focus on addressing quality control issues. This decision resulted in a temporary halt to 737 MAX production in February 2024 while Boeing implemented new inspection procedures. Boeing has also initiated a company-wide quality improvement initiative, involving employee training and process enhancements.On december 15, 2025, Boeing announced a further delay in achieving its target production rate of 50 aircraft per month, citing ongoing challenges in meeting FAA requirements.
Example or Evidence: Boeing’s Q4 2023 Earnings Release reported a $1.8 billion charge related to the 737 MAX quality control issues and production slowdown.
Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 Investigation
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation into the Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 incident continues to uncover details regarding the faulty door plug installation. The final report is expected to be released in late 2026.
Detail: The NTSB’s preliminary report,released on January 18,2024,indicated that the door plug was not properly secured during manufacturing. Investigators found evidence that key bolts were missing from the door plug assembly. The investigation is now focused on identifying the root causes of the manufacturing error and determining whether systemic issues contributed to the incident. The NTSB has issued several safety recommendations to Boeing and the FAA based on its findings.
Example or Evidence: The NTSB’s Preliminary Report on Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 details the findings regarding the missing bolts and the improper installation of the door plug.
Department of Justice Investigation
The Department of Justice (DOJ) is conducting a criminal investigation into Boeing’s safety practices and potential violations of a 2015 settlement agreement
