Trump’s Pentagon Chief Ensnared in Boeing Safety Scandal

– Patrick Shanahan, former acting Defense Department secretary and Boeing executive, is now CEO of Spirit AeroSystems, a key supplier to Boeing that has recently faced quality control issues. These problems have slowed production at Boeing and caused the company to miss its production targets. Shanahan’s mission at Spirit Aero is to fix these issues.
– The recent Alaska Air debacle has increased the pressure on Shanahan’s attempts to turn Spirit Aero around. The Federal Aviation Administration announced it will audit Boeing’s 737 MAX 9 production line and the agency’s own practice of delegating safety checks to manufacturers. Spirit Aero, as the manufacturer of the door panels for the MAX 9, will also face scrutiny.
– Shanahan, known for his problem-solving skills, has faced criticism for his strong-arm approach. However, he is expected to use his engineering background to get to the root of the issues at Spirit Aero. Despite some speculating that he has always wanted to be the CEO of Boeing, Shanahan’s spokesperson said that he “greatly valued all the people he worked with at Boeing” and still believes in its mission.

Shanahan’s Leadership at Spirit Aero Amid Quality Issues

Shanahan, known as “Mr. Fix-It”, was appointed at Spirit Aero to resolve its quality issues, a move that came after the previous CEO’s departure, according to The Wall Street Journal. The quality problems at Spirit Aero reportedly led to slowed production at Boeing and missed production targets.

Shanahan’s role in resolving these issues was a calling, says Spirit Aero spokesperson Joe Buccino. Richard Aboulafia, an aerospace analyst with AeroDynamic Advisories, suggested that Shanahan took up the task as he could not save Boeing from within.

Shanahan’s Potential Impact on Boeing

Aboulafia believes that one of the biggest risks for Spirit Aero is that Shanahan might perform so well that he could end up leading Boeing. The recent Alaska Air mishap has heightened the stakes for Shanahan’s attempt to turn Spirit Aero around.

The Federal Aviation Administration announced a thorough audit into Boeing’s 737 MAX 9 production line following the incident. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., demanded answers from the agency, questioning their effectiveness in ensuring aircraft safety.

Shanahan’s Track Record at the Defense Department

Shanahan has proved his expertise in dealing with complex issues in the past. He played a key role in resolving issues with the 787 Dreamliner during his tenure at the Pentagon. However, his Defense Department tenure was not without controversy as he faced an investigation into alleged favoritism toward Boeing.

Shanahan’s Compensation and Management Style

After leaving the Trump administration, Shanahan joined Spirit Aero’s board in 2021. He was enticed with an increased compensation package, including a $2 million base salary and an $8 million restricted stock grant, according to a regulatory filing.

Shanahan’s management style is known for its hands-on approach. He is expected to use this approach at Spirit Aero to ensure effective quality control and production.

Concerns about Shanahan’s Ambitions

Some sources suggest that Shanahan has long been aiming for the top position at Boeing, a claim supported by a former Boeing lobbyist. However, Buccino stated that Shanahan values all his colleagues and treats everyone with dignity and respect.

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