Boeing CEO admits mistakes as senator rips planemaker: ‘Culture continues to prioritize profits'

Core Viewpoint - Boeing's CEO Dave Calhoun has publicly acknowledged the company's shortcomings in safety and accountability, particularly in light of recent incidents and ongoing investigations related to the 737 MAX aircraft [1][8]. Group 1: Accountability and Investigations - Calhoun expressed a commitment to transparency and taking responsibility during a Senate hearing, marking his first appearance before lawmakers regarding Boeing's safety issues [2]. - Senator Richard Blumenthal indicated that there is substantial evidence for the U.S. Justice Department to consider prosecuting Boeing for failing to comply with a deferred prosecution agreement [2]. - A new whistleblower, Sam Mohawk, reported systemic issues at Boeing, including a 300% increase in nonconformance reports since the resumption of 737 MAX production [4]. Group 2: Safety Concerns and Regulatory Scrutiny - Following a mid-air incident on January 5 involving a 737 MAX 9, scrutiny from regulators and airlines has intensified, with the National Transportation Safety Board noting missing bolts on the aircraft [10]. - The FAA's head acknowledged that the agency had been "too hands off" in its oversight of Boeing prior to the January incident, leading to increased regulatory scrutiny [10]. - Boeing has submitted a quality improvement plan to the FAA to address systemic quality-control issues, which has resulted in a halt on expanding production of the MAX [12]. Group 3: Company Culture and Future Direction - Calhoun admitted that Boeing's culture is far from perfect but emphasized that the company is taking action to improve [8]. - Blumenthal described the hearing as a "moment of reckoning" for Boeing, urging the company to focus on long-term safety and quality rather than short-term profits [8].