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Boeing Under Fire: Four Missing Bolts, Production Capped at 38 Units, and a Looming $487.2M Fine

During an intense Senate hearing, new CEO Kelly Ortberg promised extensive safety reforms while facing scrutiny over the fatal 737 MAX failures that killed 346 people and led to a criminal fraud trial.

April 2, 2025

Summary

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January 2024: A Boeing 737 MAX 9 door plug blew off mid-flight on an Alaska Airlines flight due to missing critical bolts.
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Fatal Crashes 2018-2019: Two fatal 737 MAX crashes resulted in the deaths of 346 people, intensifying scrutiny of public safety and regulations.
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Leadership Change: CEO Kelly Ortberg, who replaced Dave Calhoun in August 2024, acknowledges “major failures” and outlines sweeping changes in people, processes, and company structure.
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FAA Intervention: Following the door panel incident, the Federal Aviation Administration has capped Boeing’s 737 MAX production at 38 units per month.
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Boeing has pleaded guilty to criminal conspiracy to commit fraud in connection with the deadly crashes and could face a fine of up to $487.2 million. A trial date has been set for June 23.
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Defense Contract: Despite setbacks, Boeing recently secured a major contract to build the U.S. Air Force’s next-generation fighter jet, highlighting its continued importance in national defense.
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Lawmakers including Sen. Ted Cruz and Sen. Maria Cantwell continue to urge Boeing to enhance its safety culture and restore public trust.

Boeing, once a proud symbol of American aerospace innovation, is now under intense scrutiny. In his testimony before the Senate Commerce Committee, CEO Kelly Ortberg admitted that recent shortcomings have fallen far short of expectations. His remarks come as the company faces increasing challenges that have raised questions about its commitment to safety.

In January 2024, a Boeing 737 MAX 9 operated by Alaska Airlines experienced a serious malfunction when a door plug detached mid-flight. The incident was traced back to a production oversight at Boeing’s Renton facility, where four key bolts were missing. As a result, the Federal Aviation Administration has capped Boeing’s 737 MAX production at 38 units per month. This event also heightened scrutiny and public concern following the fatal 737 MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019, which claimed 346 lives and brought intense focus on Boeing’s priorities.

Taking the helm in August 2024, Kelly Ortberg succeeded Dave Calhoun following the mid-air door detachment. He quickly promised sweeping reforms aimed at overhauling the workforce, refining processes, and reorganizing operations to rebuild a robust safety culture. Acknowledging the daunting road ahead, Ortberg stressed that the company faces a long climb in regaining its trusted reputation.

Regulatory and legal challenges remain significant. The FAA continues to keep a close watch on Boeing by enforcing its production limits. In a major legal development, Boeing pleaded guilty in July to a criminal fraud conspiracy charge tied to the fatal crashes and now faces a trial on June 23—with potential fines of up to $487.2 million. This legal setback adds to the uncertainty surrounding Boeing’s financial stability and intensifies pressure on its management.

Lawmakers have also pressed the company for answers. Senators Ted Cruz and Maria Cantwell have rigorously questioned Boeing, insisting that the reforms be substantial and lasting rather than superficial. Their pointed inquiries underline the broad concern that Boeing must deliver genuine change.

This Senate hearing is a critical moment, demanding that Boeing honor its legacy as a pillar of American industry by committing to a safer and more accountable future. The coming months are crucial in determining if Boeing can turn the page and restore its standing in America’s aerospace and manufacturing sectors.