The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is once again in the spotlight—this time due to safety concerns following a tragic Air India crash on June 12, 2025. The aircraft, now under investigation by Indian aviation authorities, had already faced scrutiny after the March 2024 death of John Barnett, a Boeing whistleblower who raised alarms about manufacturing flaws.
So, should passengers be concerned? Here’s what travelers need to know about Boeing 787 Dreamliner safety, its track record, and expert opinions.
Key Features of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner
Photo by Martin Chavez from Getty Images
Introduced in 2011, the Boeing 787 is a modern, fuel-efficient wide-body aircraft. It features improved pressurization, lower cabin noise, and larger windows, making it a popular choice for long-haul travel.
More than 1,000 Dreamliners are in active service globally, and they are used by airlines such as American Airlines, United, British Airways, ANA, Qatar Airways, and Air India. Their wide adoption reflects the strong reliability of the Boeing 787.
Why the Dreamliner Is Facing Scrutiny
The June 2025 Air India crash has intensified scrutiny of the Dreamliner. Details of the crash are still under investigation, but there have been questions about the aircraft’s safety and renewed concerns about flying on Boeing 787s.
This follows the earlier case of John Barnett, a former Boeing quality manager who reported defects in the Dreamliner’s oxygen systems and other components. He claimed, “One in four masks will not work” during an emergency. Boeing rejected the allegations, stating: “We are saddened by Mr. Barnett’s passing… Boeing is committed to ensuring the safety of our airplanes and the people who build them”.
These events have led to increased demand for a Boeing aircraft safety review.
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Expert Opinions and FAA Oversight
Aviation experts and regulatory bodies maintain that the Boeing 787 remains safe to fly.
Robert Sumwalt, former NTSB Chair, said: “I see no evidence that flying has become less safe right now”.
John Cox, veteran pilot and aviation safety consultant, stated: “All modern airplanes go through extensive checks, and there are multiple layers of oversight. The 787 has had issues, but none that call into question its airworthiness”.
The FAA has responded to past issues—like misaligned fuselage components—by increasing inspections at Boeing’s South Carolina facility. Still, no Dreamliner has been grounded due to these problems. The agency continues to monitor and evaluate developments as part of an ongoing Boeing aircraft safety review.
Is the Boeing 787 Still Safe?
Currently, no aviation authority has issued warnings against flying on the Boeing 787. All aircraft in operation meet regulatory safety standards. If you’re booked on a Dreamliner, you can check the aircraft type in your booking or use platforms like FlightAware.
While it’s natural to be cautious, there is no verified reason to avoid the 787 based solely on recent headlines. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner has a strong safety record and remains widely trusted in the aviation industry.
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*Banner photo by RyanFletcher from Getty Images Pro
