So when did Southwest talk to Boeing, before or after the supposed memory lapse. If it was before they were hit by the FAA, why wasn't the Boeing approval submitted to the FAA in the form of an AMOC for the ADs? This would have been the correct method if they wanted a time extension of the ADs for "operational reasons"
In these days of SMS, where was the internal oversight in Southwest? A $10 million fine wasn't imposed because the FAA has nothing better to do.
You want self regulation, you get it but don't come whining when you screw up or expect others to justify your situation for you.
carholme