Democratic Senator Maria Cantwell on Tuesday urged the Federal Aviation Administration to address critical concerns before deciding whether to extend a program that allows Boeing to perform FAA-delegated tasks like inspections and approving repairs.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is aiming to recruit 2,000 new air traffic controller trainees in 2025, while continuing close scrutiny of Boeing’s (NYSE:BA) operations, according to written remarks from acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau,

The FAA is about 3,500 air traffic controllers short of targeted staffing levels and has about 10% fewer controllers than it did in 2012.

Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg is set to appear before Congress, Senator Maria Cantwell raised “critical concerns” about allowing the aircraft manufacturer to certify its own work.

Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg acknowledged that the company has made "serious missteps" in the past, in testimony viewed by CNBC.

Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg told senators on Wednesday that he’s happy with the company’s progress improving manufacturing and safety practices following several accidents, including a near catastrophe last year.

Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg will testify Wednesday before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation to face questions on how the company is addressing production and safety issues.

Boeing faces heightened regulatory scrutiny following two fatal plane crashes and an assembly oversight that led to a panel blowing off a 737 MAX 9 mid-flight.