Two recent deaths of former Boeing whistleblower, Joshua Dean and John Barnett, have cast a fresh spotlight on the ongoing Boeing 737 MAX scandal and raised concerns about potential retaliation against those who raise safety issues within the aviation giant.
A Second Whistleblower Lost
On May 2nd, 2024, news broke that Joshua Dean, a former quality auditor at Boeing supplier Spirit AeroSystems, had passed away at the age of 45. According to media reports, Dean died from a “sudden and severe lung infection” after battling illness for two weeks. This news comes just two months after the death of another Boeing whistleblower, John “Mitch” Barnett, who reportedly died by suicide in March 2024.
Raising Concerns About the 737 MAX
Dean was one of the first individuals to raise concerns about potential manufacturing flaws in Boeing’s 737 MAX aircraft. Specifically, he documented issues related to improperly drilled holes in the aft pressure bulkhead, a critical component for maintaining cabin pressure. In 2022, Dean reportedly brought these concerns to the attention of Spirit’s leadership but felt they were disregarded. He subsequently filed a complaint with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and provided testimony in a lawsuit filed by Spirit shareholders.
John Barnett’s Case: A Shadow of Retaliation
John Barnett, who worked alongside Dean at Spirit AeroSystems, also raised safety concerns about Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner. Barnett’s case involved allegations that Boeing retaliated against him after he flagged quality issues with the aircraft. At the time of his death, Barnett was in the midst of legal proceedings against Boeing regarding these claims.
Boeing’s Response
Boeing has acknowledged the deaths of both Dean and Barnett. However, the company has not commented on the allegations of retaliation. Regarding the 737 MAX issues raised by Dean, Boeing has maintained that the aircraft underwent rigorous testing and met all safety standards.
A Culture of Silence?
The deaths of Dean and Barnett, along with the ongoing legal case involving John Barnett, raise questions about the potential for a culture of silence within Boeing and its supply chain. If whistleblowers who raise safety concerns fear retaliation, it could discourage others from coming forward with critical information.
Focus on Safety
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has a responsibility to ensure the safety of commercial aircraft. The recent deaths and ongoing legal cases highlight the importance of the FAA having robust procedures in place to investigate whistleblower complaints and hold companies accountable for potential safety violations.
Looking Ahead: Unanswered Questions
The circumstances surrounding the deaths of Joshua Dean and John Barnett remain under investigation. While the cause of Dean’s death appears to be a medical issue, the timing, following another whistleblower death and amidst legal proceedings, raises questions that warrant further examination.
The ongoing legal case involving John Barnett’s allegations of retaliation against Boeing will be closely watched. A clear resolution to this case could send an important message about how whistleblowers are treated within the aviation industry.
The Importance of Open Communication
Open communication and a culture that encourages employees to raise safety concerns without fear of reprisal are critical for ensuring the safety of the flying public. The Boeing whistleblower cases serve as a stark reminder of the potential consequences when such a culture is not fostered.
Focus on Transparency
Moving forward, Boeing and its suppliers must prioritize transparency and work to rebuild trust with the public and regulatory agencies. This includes a clear commitment to investigating all safety concerns thoroughly and ensuring that whistleblowers are protected. The FAA, meanwhile, must continue to play a strong role in ensuring the safety of the skies by actively investigating whistleblower claims and holding companies accountable.
