Boeing’s argument is that the issue really isn’t an issue based on available data.
The FAA’s argument is that a rule is a rule and Boeing seems to have a problem following the rules.
Boeing is probably right but given the mess they got themselves in it’s probably best to just fall in line and follow the rules. They’re not helping their cause trying to apply logic here.
From the article:
"New safety rules on wiring were adopted in the aftermath of the 1998 Swiss Air 111 crash."
These recommendations were added as a result of a crash. The crash happened a bit after the 737NG started flying (AFAICS 737NG=1997), so I guess existing certified aircrafts didn't need to be modified. It does make sense for a new aircraft though.
The FAA’s argument is that a rule is a rule and Boeing seems to have a problem following the rules.
Boeing is probably right but given the mess they got themselves in it’s probably best to just fall in line and follow the rules. They’re not helping their cause trying to apply logic here.