Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun will step down from his post by the end of 2024 in response to the safety crisis following a mid-air panel blowout on a 737 MAX plane in January this year.
A renowned name in aviation manufacturing, Boeing faced several backlashes after an emergency incident happened when a fuselage panel ripped off on an Alaska Airlines flight about 16,000 feet above the ground level. The company faces intense regulatory scrutiny, prompting U.S. authorities to restrict production until it addresses safety and quality concerns.
Last week, a group of U.S. airline CEOs requested meetings with Boeing directors to raise concerns about the Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9 accident, indicating unusual frustration with the manufacturer’s issues and Mr. Calhoun’s leadership.
No severe injuries were reported, but the incident forced an emergency landing, which raised many questions about the authorities’ credibility.
In an interview, Calhoun said, right now, the whole world is watching us, and I know we will come back stronger and make this company better. He also highlighted the company’s commitment to promoting safety and quality.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has given Boeing a 90-day deadline to solve its quality control problems and issue a report. Following the chain of events, including an engine fire and emergency landing, the FAA has demanded real and solid proof of the mishappenings 737 MAX 9.
With the company facing severe challenges and backlash, Stan Deal, President of Boeing, announced his retirement, with Stephanie Pope being assumed to take his position. Moreover, the company revealed that Steve Mollenkopf is in talks to be appointed as the new Chairman of Boeing’s upper management.
In these struggling times, Boeing’s upcoming months will be crucial as it tries to rebuild trust and upgrade safety measures. Meanwhile, Boeing’s arch-rival has benefitted from the company’s misfortunes by clinching orders for 65 jets, making it more difficult for Boeing to survive in this competitive landscape.
As Dave Colhoun prepared to step down as the CEO, he penned a note saying, The Alaska Airlines flight incident is a watershed moment for Boeing. We must take this situation very seriously and continue to respond to the situation with humility and absolute transparency. We know our promises and are confident we can make your skies safer.
