Why Haven't You Resigned? Boeing Chief's Grilling By Senate Is Viral

Photo : AFP

Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun encountered a grueling Senate hearing that delved into the company's manufacturing deficiencies and allegations of prioritizing profit over safety. Led by Senator Richard Blumenthal, the hearing marked Calhoun's first public appearance before Congress since assuming the CEO role in early 2020. The scrutiny intensified after Boeing faced renewed criticism following a severe incident involving one of its aircraft in January, prompting the CEO's appearance to address concerns and defend the company's actions.

Calhoun began the hearing with a gesture of contrition, directly apologizing to families affected by two fatal crashes involving Boeing planes in 2018 and 2019. However, tensions quickly escalated as Blumenthal accused Boeing of providing inadequate documentation to the committee, while others raised concerns about Calhoun's compensation and perceived lack of engagement with whistleblowers.

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"I'm here in the spirit of transparency and I'm here to take responsibility," Calhoun asserted before reporters ahead of the session.

The nearly two-hour hearing underscored the immense challenge of steering Boeing through a tumultuous period, with senators asserting that the iconic American manufacturer had lost its way. Calhoun defended his tenure, citing significant changes implemented under his leadership as "dramatic." Yet, Blumenthal countered, alleging that Boeing had made minimal progress and merely recycled old strategies.

The hearing also scrutinized Boeing's handling of whistleblower complaints, with Blumenthal pressing Calhoun on allegations of retaliation against whistleblowers. While Calhoun acknowledged that individuals had been terminated for retaliatory actions, he admitted to not directly engaging with whistleblowers, a move he conceded would be beneficial.

Since Calhoun took the helm, Boeing has navigated through a turbulent phase marked by substantial financial losses, the grounding of the 737 Max, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, operational disruptions, and supply chain challenges. The latest crisis emerged in January when a Boeing aircraft experienced a severe incident during flight, further denting the company's reputation.

Despite assurances of transparency and accountability from Calhoun, concerns persisted over the company's manufacturing standards and operational practices. Issues with quality control at Boeing and its supplier, Spirit AeroSystem Holdings Inc., were highlighted following an incident involving a 737 Max aircraft where a fuselage panel experienced an airborne blowout due to missing bolts.

One of the most contentious moments of the hearing came when Missouri Senator Josh Hawley criticized Calhoun's hefty compensation package totaling nearly $33 million for 2023, labeling it a "travesty" and questioning Calhoun's continued leadership.

"Senator, I'm sticking this through," Calhoun responded firmly in defense of his position.

The hearing concluded without a definitive resolution on Boeing's challenges, highlighting ongoing concerns within Congress and the broader aviation industry regarding safety, governance, and executive accountability at one of America's most prominent aerospace companies.

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