Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the significant quality issues faced by Boeing's 787 aircraft, which have led to production halts and financial losses for the company. The problems stem from manufacturing defects and inadequate quality control, particularly at the North Charleston factory, raising concerns about Boeing's overall production and quality management systems [3][18]. Summary by Sections Boeing 787 Quality Issues - On December 9, 2022, the delivery of the C919 to China Eastern Airlines coincided with revelations of numerous quality problems with the Boeing 787, which had previously been seen as a beacon of hope for Boeing [3]. - The 787 has faced ongoing quality issues since 2020, including improper installation of structural components and inadequate surface finishing of composite materials, leading to safety concerns [5][11]. Investigation and Findings - The FAA's investigation revealed that Boeing had identified 15 non-conformities and 57 compliance issues related to the 787's airworthiness, with the vertical tail fin being one of the first identified problems [5][6]. - The North Charleston factory, where many of the problematic 787s were produced, has been criticized for poor worker quality and management systems, resulting in widespread defects across the aircraft [14][16]. Production Halts and Financial Impact - The FAA ordered a halt to 787 deliveries on May 29, 2021, due to the severity of the quality issues, which persisted until July 29, 2022, causing significant financial repercussions for Boeing, estimated at $5.5 billion [17][18]. - In the third quarter following the resumption of deliveries, Boeing managed to deliver only 9 aircraft, with 115 more undergoing repairs, highlighting the extensive nature of the quality problems [17]. Lessons and Implications - The article emphasizes that the quality issues with the 787 serve as a cautionary tale for other aerospace projects, particularly regarding the importance of stringent quality control and skilled labor in manufacturing processes [18].