NTSB Sanctions Boeing for Unauthorized Release of 737 MAX 9 Investigation Info
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has sanctioned Boeing for sharing unauthorized information regarding the Jan. 5 incident involving Alaska Airlines Flight 1282. The incident occurred when a plug exit violently departed a newly built 737 MAX 9 shortly after takeoff from Portland International Airport in Oregon. Boeing, which is a party to the NTSB's investigation, held a media event on June 25 in its Renton, Washington factory, where it provided nonpublic investigative information to the media and speculated about possible causes of the accident.
As a result of this violation, the NTSB has revoked Boeing's access to the docket of information gathered through the investigation. Additionally, Boeing will not be allowed to question witnesses at a planned hearing into the accident. The NTSB also noted that Boeing is under investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice for violating its Deferred Prosecution Agreement related to interactions with the FAA prior to the Boeing MAX fatalities.
