A federal watchdog has sharply criticized the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for its inadequate oversight of Boeing's manufacturing processes. The Transportation Department's Office of Inspector General released a report highlighting that the FAA's audit processes fail to identify critical discrepancies and compliance issues at Boeing, and the agency has not addressed longstanding supplier oversight weaknesses. This scrutiny intensified after a door plug incident with an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9 led to a criminal investigation. The report issued 16 recommendations, which the FAA agrees to, and it is conducting a comprehensive review to improve its oversight models. FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker acknowledged the need for a proactive, data-driven oversight approach rather than a reactive one. Boeing continues to face significant challenges, including a worker strike and ongoing safety concerns, which undermine industry trust in the company.