Understanding the Reliability of Boeing Aircraft: Clearing Up Misconceptions

Despite common narratives in the media, the Boeing 787's number of incidents cannot be directly attributed to unreliability. In fact, when comparing the total number of incidents reported across Airbus and Boeing aircraft to the National Transportation Safety Board in 2023, it is Airbus that reported more incidents. This article aims to clarify the situation by examining key factors contributing to the frequency of reported incidents and highlighting the broader context of commercial aviation safety.

Incident Rate vs. Simple Incidence

When considering the reliability of aircraft, it is important to focus on the incident rate per flight cycle rather than the total number of incidents. This approach provides a more accurate reflection of the true safety record of airline operations. While Boeing currently has over 10,000 jetliners in service, nearly 20,000 have been delivered, reflecting a significant presence in the global airline fleet. A smarter approach would be to analyze the incidence rate of fatal or hull-loss incidents, which gives a clearer picture of the safety of each aircraft model.

The Role of Airplane Manufacturers

Commercial aviation is dominated by two key manufacturers: Boeing and Airbus. While regional jets have entered the market, Airbus had their own set of challenges with the A300. I was part of the Boeing B777 Design Build Team, a testament to Boeing's commitment to excellence. The company's RRB (Reliability Review Board) was instrumental in addressing any glitches and ensuring the smooth operation of the aircraft. However, things changed after the merger with financially strapped McDonnell Douglas, whose business model involved stretching existing designs.

Despite these challenges, I hold immense respect for the Boeing teams I worked with. Alan Mullally, the former B777 Division President, was a visionary leader who drove the excellence of the B777 project. His leadership style and commitment to building a great airplane are highly regarded. The FAA certification process is also a testament to Boeing's dedication to safety, as I was honored to participate in a test flight where the type certificate was presented.

Boeing's Dominance in Air Transport

Boeing's significant market share is a key factor in the number of incidents that get reported. The 737 model alone, which makes up about one-fourth of the world aviation fleet, has over 7,700 units delivered, with over 5,600 in current service. Approximately 2,000 737s are in the air at any given moment, with around 24,000 flights taking off every day. These 737s, along with other models like the 747, 757, 767, 777, and 787, contribute to a massive fleet.

Statistically, the presence of over half of the world's commercial planes means that about half of the reported incidents can be attributed to Boeing aircraft. However, it is crucial to understand that these incidents are rare and reported due to their significance. Out of the tens of thousands of daily flights, the vast majority are incident-free. The rare incidents are what make headlines and get media attention, but in reality, the overall safety record is excellent.

Conclusion

The reliability of Boeing aircraft should not be judged solely by the number of incidents reported. A more comprehensive analysis of the incident rate, considering the total number of flights and the overall fleet, provides a more balanced picture. While there are indeed many Boeing aircraft in use, it is the airline operators' responsibility to fly and maintain these aircraft according to design specifications, ensuring safety remains our top priority in aviation.