Boeing CEO recognizes 'gravity' of safety crisis but sees 'progress'

Core Viewpoint - Boeing's CEO Dave Calhoun acknowledged the company's imperfect safety culture during a Senate hearing, emphasizing ongoing efforts to improve safety and accountability [1][2]. Group 1: Safety Culture and Accountability - Calhoun apologized to the families of victims from the two fatal Boeing 737 MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019, indicating a recognition of the company's past failures [1]. - The Senate committee highlighted complaints from Boeing employees, including a whistleblower's concerns about the use of damaged parts potentially leading to catastrophic events [2]. - Calhoun stated that the company is at a "moment of reckoning" and has an opportunity to change its safety culture [2]. Group 2: Investigations and Legal Implications - The Department of Justice is considering prosecution against Boeing for violating a criminal settlement related to the 737 MAX crashes, with a decision expected by July 7 [3]. - Senator Richard Blumenthal mentioned overwhelming evidence suggesting that prosecution should be pursued against Boeing [3]. Group 3: Employee Concerns and Retaliation - Testimonies from Boeing engineers revealed a culture that dismissed safety concerns and retaliated against those who raised issues, with specific allegations from engineer Sam Salehpour regarding the 787 Dreamliner [4][5]. - Calhoun expressed support for employees who voice safety concerns and committed to addressing questions about retaliation against whistleblowers [4][5].