I fail to see what possible benefit the FAA could gain from not investigating credible whistleblower reports. Quite to the contrary, they would have much to lose if a failure to investigate resulted in an aviation incident or accident, particularly in terms of their credibility and perception of competence. I can see, on the other hand, lots of potential upside from the whistleblower’s viewpoint: He’s pissed at the company so can give them a headache by reporting some perceived defect (with no consequences to him if the report is maliciously bogus); or, if he believes his allegation is rock solid and will lead to a financial reward, but in fact it’s nothing, again he experiences no downside. The people I’ve known who work for the FAA take their responsibilities seriously and try to do a good job. They don’t deserve to be smeared with a broad brush.
2 Likes