Boeing faces scrutiny over safety culture, severs ties with lobbying firm amid congressional hearings

Boeing Co. is currently under intense scrutiny regarding its safety culture, leading to a Senate Permanent Subcommittee hearing focused on recent safety incidents, such as a mid-flight door failure on an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9. In light of these challenges, Boeing has severed ties with Cornerstone Government Affairs, a prominent lobbying firm that played a crucial role following the tragic 737 Max crashes. This strategic decision, along with the departure of experienced lobbyists, could diminish Boeing's historical influence in Washington, D. C.

Lawmakers are increasingly distancing themselves from the company, with some rejecting campaign contributions from Boeing executives amid ongoing investigations. This precarious situation raises concerns about the potential impact on Boeing's defense contracts and commercial operations, which may face heightened government oversight. Boeing's lobbying team is reportedly struggling to reconnect with lawmakers who once supported it. A spokesperson for Boeing has highlighted significant leadership changes since 2019 aimed at improving transparency and communication with government officials, but critics argue these efforts may not be enough to restore trust in the company's operations.