The FAA identified several instances where Boeing workers cut corners, including one mechanic who used an improvised device to measure gaps between components.

Roughly 33,000 Boeing workers have been on strike since September 13, idling the planemaker’s main jetliner factories near Seattle.

As AI continues to spread throughout the manufacturing sector, its impact will only intensify.

The austerity measure affects tens of thousands of U.S.-based employees, managers and executives, according to the company.

The planemaker will also stop issuing “a majority” of its supplier purchase orders for the 737, 767 and 777 jetliner programs affected by the walkout.

Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg had previously pleaded with workers not to go on strike, saying the action would put the company’s “recovery in jeopardy.”

Aviation is one of the heaviest-emitting industries, and among the most difficult to decarbonize.

The FAA capped output of Boeing’s 737 Max at a rate of 38 per month in the wake of a January 2024 near-catastrophe, in which a door cover blew off during flight.

The company’s credit rating is on the edge of being cut below investment grade, and output of the 737 model has been capped by regulators.

Airline says 15 jets need new part after Rolls-Royce engine problem.