EVERETT, WA – House Aviation Subcommittee Chair Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement in response to Boeing’s decision to temporarily halt the production of 737 MAX airplanes at its Renton, Washington factory:

“Today’s Boeing announcement is a body blow to its workers and the region’s economy. The only saving grace is the Boeing leadership has promised not to lay off any workers. I am ready to work with Boeing workers to ensure they are protected and that they will have access to the necessary resources in the event of a prolonged shutdown.

“In the meantime, the FAA should continue to emphasize that safety is the guiding principle for any return to service decision for the 737 MAX. The MAX is a great airplane and will be in use for many years, but the best decision for the long-term and for the workers at Boeing is ensuring the necessary changes needed to put the plane back in service are done only with safety in mind.” 

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