Overworked Boeing mechanics did not use proper maintenance techniques on one of the planes known as Air Force One last year, which resulted in a $4 million fix paid by the company.
According to a Defense Department report made public this week, the mistake occurred last April when the plane, technically known as a Boeing VC-25A, was in Port San Antonio, Texas for routine maintenance.
Protocol requires tools, parts, and components used on the oxygen system to be oxygen-cleaned and sealed in a bag before use. Failing to follow those guidelines could leave residue in the oxygen system, which raises the threat of a fire breaking out onboard.
During the incident, which was detailed in a report released this week, a mechanic working on the plane used tools, parts, and components that he later discovered to be contaminated. A cleaning solution was brought out but another mechanic improperly used it. The oxygen system was then hooked up with parts that were not clean.
The Air Force Times noted that several problems had plagued Boeing in the months leading up to the incident, including mechanics working 12-hour shifts 6-7 days a week and a lack of experienced mechanics at the Port San Antonio location.
"We took swift action to self-report the incident to the Air Force, and we remediated the oxygen system at no cost to the government," Boeing spokesman Ben Davis told the Times. "We fully understand the level of responsibility that comes from working on the president's aircraft, and we're committed to our partnership with the Air Force to provide the highest standard of support for the VC-25."
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