Boeing's Safety Push Recognized by FAA, But Production Limits Still in Place

The Federal Aviation Administration's acting administrator, Chris Rocheleau, said Boeing BA is making measurable progress in improving its safety practices.

They're on the right path, Rocheleau told CNBC, commenting on the company's efforts to enhance its safety procedures.

Asked about when the FAA might lift production caps on the 737 Max, Rocheleau clarified that the timeline depends on Boeing's own readiness, stating the decision is ultimately up to Boeing.

The FAA imposed a ceiling on Boeing's 737 Max production last year, limiting output to 38 aircraft per month. The restriction followed a high-profile incident in January 2024, when a door plug detached mid-flight on an Alaska Airlines-operated 737 Max 8 shortly after departure, prompting an emergency return.

Subsequent investigation revealed that the panel had been incorrectly installed at Boeing's manufacturing facility.