The FAA is investigating allegations that titanium used in planes from Boeing and Airbus was sold with falsified documents.
Boeing and Airbus, the two largest commercial aircraft manufacturers, are under investigation after claims surfaced that titanium used in their planes may have been obtained with counterfeit documentation. Spirit Aerosystems, a supplier based in Wichita, Kansas, flagged the issue, alleging that the titanium used in some aircraft could have come with falsified records verifying its authenticity. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has confirmed it will probe the matter.
This development adds to Boeing’s ongoing series of challenges, including federal investigations into potential safety problems. While Boeing is at the center of the controversy, its rival, Airbus, is also facing increased scrutiny as a result.
Spirit Aerosystems acted swiftly, removing any suspect titanium parts from the supply chain and conducting over 1,000 tests to ensure the safety and integrity of affected materials. The company reassured the public that all suspect parts were quarantined and removed from production.
Both Boeing and Airbus issued statements regarding the situation. Boeing has reported the issue to the FAA and has confirmed that it is removing affected parts from planes before delivery. The company also stated that tests have shown the proper titanium alloy was used in parts already in service, and those planes are safe to fly.
Airbus, controlling 60% of the commercial airline market, acknowledged the issue and emphasized that numerous tests had been conducted on parts from the affected supply source. The company reassured that airworthiness remained intact.
The incident is part of Boeing’s broader troubles this year, which includes investigations into several safety-related issues. The FAA is also reviewing an incident involving a Boeing 737 Max that experienced a “Dutch roll” maneuver, as well as concerns about inspections on Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner fleet.
