

The Whistle-Blowers at Boeing
Apr 23, 2019
Natalie Kitroeff, a Business reporter for The New York Times, joins former Boeing quality manager John Barnett, who bravely blew the whistle on safety concerns. They discuss the tragic crashes of the 737 MAX and how internal pressures prioritized production speed over safety. Barnett shares chilling insights into hazardous materials and defective parts found during inspections. The conversation highlights a troubling culture at Boeing and raises critical questions about trust in aviation safety, especially regarding the 787 Dreamliner.
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Boeing Pride Turned Embarrassment
- John Barnett, a former quality manager at Boeing, initially felt immense pride working for the company.
- Now, he and other employees feel embarrassed due to Boeing's declining quality and safety standards.
Cultural Issues at Boeing
- Natalie Kitroeff investigated potential cultural issues at Boeing beyond the 737 Max.
- She interviewed whistleblowers and reviewed internal documents, uncovering a concerning narrative about Boeing's manufacturing practices.
787 Dreamliner Problems
- The 787 Dreamliner, initially hailed as Boeing's future, faced production delays and a battery overheating issue.
- These problems raised concerns about meeting deadlines and maintaining quality.