A dangerous mid-air breach in the fuselage of a 737 Max is just the latest production lapse at Boeing, raising questions about whether the manufacturer can deliver a quality product as it strives to build planes at a faster rate.

The incident, though it resulted in no serious injuries, was alarming enough for US aviation regulators to ground about 171 jets, pending inspection. 

Boeing said it supported the decision and that safety remained its “top priority”. Executives of the plane maker were in close contact with affected airlines over the weekend. The company will be keen to reassure customers and investors that the problem is contained. Boeing’s shares have risen more than 18 per cent over the past 12 months and closed on Friday just shy of $250.