The problem is that with any project of such complexity and wide range
of technologies, there's no alternative but to outsource a lot of systems
and parts. Systems get more complex and need specialist manufacturers to
build them. Engines, avionics and more have been sourced this way for decades.
Duff batch of charger control boards may be true, but where was the inspection
procedure for incoming goods ?. Why didn't the BITE / system diagnostics pick
up the fault once the kit was installed ?. How much testing had been done under
worst case conditions over long periods ? and, why wasn't the battery electrically
isolated once the temperature or charge characteristics exceeded limits ?. Duff
batch of boards from *Mexico* ?. That's ok then, problem solved, or a smoke
screen ?.
Sad day for Boeing though. As slf, always thought of their kit as first class
and teething troubles like this probably won't change that view. The 380 intro
wasn't exactly trouble free either, just for the balance :-)...