The aeronautics sector has recently been rocked by an investigation by the Brindisi Public Prosecutor's Office that revealed the use of non-compliant materials in the production of parts for the B-787 Dreamliner. Investigators suspect that the companies Processi Speciali and Manufacturing Process Specification, both located in Brindisi, used lower-quality aluminum and titanium than required in the original designs.

The fact emerged during the investigations conducted following the seizure of the corporate assets of the two companies due to bankruptcy charges. Three individuals were arrested and four other people were reported, including Vincenzo Ingrosso and his three sons, as well as Domenico Salamino, Salvatore D'Isanto and Sirio Virgilio Zecchini.

According to the Prosecutor's Office, the parts manufactured with poor quality materials would have compromised the safety of the aircraft, since they had significantly lower static resistance characteristics under stress. A compromise that could potentially affect safety even in emergency landing conditions, increasing the risk of structural failures. Furthermore, investigations are underway into possible environmental damage due to the spillage of hazardous waste in the industrial area of Brindisi, worsening the picture of violations.

Overall, approximately 6,000 non-compliant aircraft components and 35 tanks containing hazardous waste were seized. Investigations continue to outline the full extent of the impacts of these practices, both in terms of aviation safety and environmental health. The investigations, in which the American FBI also participated, were also conducted with an international rogatory letter in the United States. At the conclusion of which Boeing was urged to start an extraordinary maintenance campaign for the aircraft involved.