Boeing whistleblower John Barnett found dead in US

Barnett worked at Boeing for over 30 years, serving on the production floor until his retirement in 2017

A former employee of Boeing John Barnett, who raised concerns about manufacturing defects, which the company disregarded, has been found dead in South Carolina, U.S. 

Barnett worked at Boeing for over 30 years, serving on the production floor until his retirement in 2017. 

Barnett complained about Boeing as a whistleblower, alleging that the company retaliated against him for consistently highlighting the defects. 

He had recently been providing testimony against the aviation giant in a legal case in Charleston. 

According to the Charleston County Coroner’s Office, Barnett passed away from what seemed to be a self-inflicted injury. 

The Charleston City Police Department is conducting the investigation; no additional information is available. 

A spokesperson from Boeing expressed their sorrow over Barnett’s demise, stating: “(Mr.) Barnett’s passing saddens us, adding: “Our condolences are with his loved ones.” 

During his employment at Boeing, the 62-year-old from Louisiana supervised aircraft manufacturing and conducted safety inspections. 

However, he informed ABC in January that he was profoundly disenchanted with the corporation he once admired. 

Boeing’s 737 MAX aircraft has been under scrutiny following two fatal accidents five years ago and a recent incident involving Alaska Airlines. 

In January, an Alaska Airlines plane experienced a window blowout and fuselage damage shortly after departing over Oregon. 

Barnett told ABC that he believed the issue extended beyond the problematic MAX due to what he claimed were inadequate quality and safety protocols. 

The former quality manager remarked: “This is an overarching Boeing matter, not limited to the 737.” 

“Their ethos revolves around speed, production and expediting aircraft deliveries. Raising any concerns or issues will only impede their progress,” the spokesperson added.

Source: Newsroom