The Texas Attorney General opens an investigation into Boeing’s supplier’s practices and DEI pledges

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced on Thursday an inquiry into Spirit AeroSystems, a major Boeing parts supplier, probing its operations and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Spirit AeroSystems, a key player in aircraft parts manufacturing globally, produces fuselages for Boeing 737 and 787, Airbus A350, and wings for the A220. Its collaboration with Boeing faced scrutiny after a midair blowout incident involving a 737 Max 9’s door plug panel.

Paxton notified Spirit AeroSystems of the investigation via letter, demanding documents on manufacturing defects and DEI commitments potentially affecting production processes. Expressing concern over airplane safety, Paxton emphasised his commitment to holding companies accountable for upholding legal standards and prioritising passenger safety.

Spirit AeroSystems is expected to furnish requested documents to the attorney general’s consumer protection division by April 17.

Boeing and Spirit AeroSystems have faced heightened scrutiny since the Jan. 5 door plug panel blowout, which led to the grounding of 737 Max 9 aircraft. The incident prompted inspections and a subsequent return to service after FAA and manufacturer assessments.

Additional incidents, such as misdrilled holes on undelivered 737 Max jet fuselages, have compounded challenges for aerospace companies. Boeing is reportedly exploring acquiring Spirit AeroSystems, its former subsidiary.