Overview
- The 38-per-month limit remains in place, set in early 2024 after an Alaska Airlines MAX 9 suffered a door-plug failure and was found to be missing four bolts.
- Bedford said progress is evident but the agency is waiting for data and bottom-up recommendations from front-line teams before considering any change.
- The FAA is finalizing scenario-based tabletop exercises with Boeing to validate risk controls, with completion targeted by the end of September.
- Regulators continue direct, in-person oversight of Boeing’s production as part of enhanced quality checks.
- Boeing has previously expressed confidence about seeking a rise to 42 jets per month, but it declined fresh comment while Bedford highlighted broader resource strains and the need for agency reforms.