Boeing fails dozens of audits during 737 Max jet probe, FAA says

Boeing failed dozens of audits during the Federal Aviation Administration's six-week audit of the company's 737 Max jet production, according to a presentation with the findings.

Out of the 89 product audits conducted by the FAA, Boeing failed 33 and passed 56 of them, according to a slide presentation of the findings, The New York Times reported Monday.

The FAA started its probe after a door plug detached from one of its 737 Max jets during an Alaska Airlines flight mid-air, exposing the fuselage, or body of the plane, and depressurizing the cabin thousands of feet above ground.

Spirit AeroSystems, the company that produces the fuselage of the 737 Max, was also audited by the FAA. Of the 13 FAA product audits, six passed and seven failed, according to the presentation.

The audit discovered that Spirit mechanics would check a door seal by using a hotel key card and would use liquid dish soap as a lubricant on the door seal. 

Boeing spokeswoman Jessica Kowal said the manufacturer was working "to implement immediate changes and develop a comprehensive action plan to strengthen safety and quality, and build the confidence of our customers and their passengers."

Spirit spokesperson Joe Buccinio said the company is "reviewing all identified nonconformities for corrective action."

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