American Airlines Says Boeing Must Improve

American Airlines has weighed in on the troubles impacting American plane maker Boeing.

No Impact From MAX Grounding

American Airlines currently operates the Boeing 737 MAX. However, the most recent grounding did not impact the carrier as they related to the 737-9.

Additionally, it wasn’t hit by the inspections that occurred on the 737-900 aircraft, thanks to the company not operating either of the two aircraft.

However, American Airlines does fly 737-8. This variant, though, was not impacted by the groundings. Current fleet data indicates the airline has 59 in-service with an average age of 3.7 years.

Away from the MAX, however, and with no plans to fly the 737-9s, the company heavily relies on Airbus-produced aircraft. This decision has thus far paid off for them, as they weren’t impacted by any of the groundings and are not dealing with delays thanks to the 737-7 and 737-10 being uncertified.

Boeing Must Improve

During an earnings call, Robert Isom, the Chief Executive at American Airlines, said that while the company remains a significant customer of Boeing, they must get their act together.

Boeing additionally needs to be held accountable for their wrongdoings, and Isom believes that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will do the best job it can to do such a thing.

While aviation remains the safest form of transportation with a fantastic proven track record, Isom says it must continue long into the future. As a result, holding manufacturers, people or companies accountable for mistakes is an integral part of this.

Change Needed At Boeing

Analysts have also weighed in with their thoughts on what’s currently unfolding at Boeing, with some of the firm belief that change is required at a higher level than the floor.

The culture at Boeing has long been troubled, with company insiders describing a lack of connection between management and those on the floor. This disconnect has led to morale dropping at plants and much more.

Those who study Boeing closely believe if something doesn’t change higher up positively with the right people being brought in, the culture won’t change, and things won’t improve. Implementing these new changes will be short-term solutions that won’t have any long-term effects because those steering the ship are still in their positions.

Others have shared their opinions, praising Boeing for their response to the most recent incident and believing their handling of the unfolding situation has been much more professional.