Boeing Under Fire: 'Freefall' Documentary Exposes Safety Concerns and Corporate Malfeasance

Documentary filmmaker Rory Kennedy's latest Netflix film, 'Freefall: A Reckoning for Boeing,' sheds light on Boeing's alleged corporate malfeasance and safety concerns in its airplane manufacturing over the past two decades. The film, which premieres on Wednesday, chronicles Boeing's approach to aviation through interviews with whistleblowers, journalists, and company insiders.

Kennedy's previous documentary, 'Downfall: The Case Against Boeing,' focused on the 737 MAX crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia. However, she says this new film takes a broader look at Boeing's actions and their impact on the industry. She highlights specific incidents, including a door plug blowing off an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9 shortly after takeoff from Portland in January 2024.

The documentary also touches on the death of former Boeing employee John Barnett, who died during his testimony in a whistleblower retaliation lawsuit against Boeing two months later. Kennedy says she had interviewed him for her previous film and was compelled to revisit the story due to allegations that Boeing's actions were reverting back to their old ways.

Boeing has responded to the allegations by saying they have worked to address some issues raised in the film, while others remain unfounded claims. The company points to recent changes, including a new CEO and safety plan, as evidence of its commitment to improving safety standards.