CHICAGO (dpa-AFX) - The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration is
investigating whether titanium under fake documents was used in manufacturing
some Boeing (BA) and Airbus (EADSF.PK) jets.

The issue, first reported by The New York Times, came into light when a supplier
found tiny holes in parts due to titanium corrosion.

'Boeing reported a voluntary disclosure to the FAA regarding procurement of
material through a distributor who may have falsified or provided incorrect
records,' the agency stated. 'Boeing issued a bulletin outlining ways suppliers
should remain alert to the potential of falsified records.'

Speaking on the issue, Boeing stated, 'This industrywide issue affects some
shipments of titanium received by a limited set of suppliers, and tests
performed to date have indicated that the correct titanium alloy was used. To
ensure compliance, we are removing any affected parts on airplanes prior to
delivery. Our analysis shows the in-service fleet can continue to fly safely.'

Meanwhile, Airbus stated that it was aware of the issue and has conducted
numerous tests to ensure the quality of the parts, adding 'they show that the
A220's airworthiness remains intact.'

Further, Airbus stated, 'The safety and quality of our aircraft are our most
important priorities. and we are working in close collaboration with our
supplier.'

Spirit AeroSystems, which supplies fuselages to Boeing and wings for Airbus, is
also helping the FAA with the investigation. It also stated that the company has
removed the affected parts from the production line.

'This is about titanium that has entered the supply system via documents that
have been counterfeited,' Spirit spokesperson Joe Buccino said. 'When this was
identified, all suspect parts were quarantined and removed from Spirit
production. More than 1,000 tests have been completed to confirm the mechanical
and metallurgical properties of the affected material to ensure continued
airworthiness.'



Copyright(c) 2024 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved

Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX