US President Joe Biden Jokes About Boeing Amid Airplane Mishaps
During a high-dollar campaign fundraiser at Radio City Music Hall in New York, President Joe Biden made light-hearted remarks about Boeing amidst the aviation giant’s recent troubles.
Biden’s Joke About Air Force One
President Biden joked about how he avoids sitting near the doors on his Air Force One, taking a playful jab at Boeing following a recent plane door blowout incident. He quipped, “I don’t sit by the door,” but quickly added, “I’m only kidding. I shouldn’t joke about that.”
Boeing’s Recent Mid-Air Mishaps
Boeing has been facing increased scrutiny due to a series of mid-flight incidents. The troubles began with a door blowout on a Boeing 737 Max 9 operated by Alaska Airlines, leading to the grounding of all 737 Max 9s by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
- Investigations revealed missing bolts on the rear door of the Alaska Airlines jet, raising concerns about Boeing’s safety protocols.
- Another incident involved an emergency landing in Japan due to a crack in a cockpit window, tarnishing Boeing’s reputation further.
- A Delta Airlines-operated Boeing 757 faced a front tyre issue shortly after takeoff from Atlanta International Airport.
Boeing’s Leadership Changes
Boeing’s CEO Dave Calhoun announced his departure by the end of the year, aiming to address the company’s reputation following crashes in 2018 and 2019.