Whistleblower John Barnett, who raised safety concerns, died by suicide in 2024 after testifying — sparking conspiracy theories despite no foul play being found.
More than 240 people were killed Thursday when an Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed in Ahmedabad, marking the model’s first catastrophic incident since its 2011 debut. The tragedy has reignited scrutiny on Boeing, which has faced a series of safety and production controversies.
The Dreamliner, Boeing’s top-selling wide-body jet, has faced past issues including 2013 battery fires and a nearly two-year delivery pause ending in 2022 due to manufacturing flaws.
Whistleblower John Barnett, who raised safety concerns, died by suicide in 2024 after testifying — sparking conspiracy theories despite no foul play being found.
Boeing has denied all whistleblower allegations. “Our deepest condolences go out to the loved ones of the passengers and crew on board Air India Flight 171, as well as everyone affected in Ahmedabad,” said Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg.
Boeing shares dropped nearly 4.8% as the company now faces mounting pressure ahead of the upcoming Paris Air Show.