Washington, DC – Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun is set to step down by the end of 2024 as part of a significant management restructuring for the troubled aerospace company. The decision comes amid mounting pressure from airlines and regulators for major changes following a series of quality and manufacturing issues with Boeing aircraft.
In addition to Calhoun’s departure, Chairman Larry Kellner will also be resigning and leaving the board in May. Steve Mollenkopf will take over as chair, replacing Kellner. Furthermore, Stan Deal, the president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, will be leaving the company immediately. Stephanie Pope will be assuming his role after recently being appointed Boeing’s Chief Operating Officer.
A pivotal moment occurred on January 5 when a door plug blew out of a nearly new Boeing 737 Max 9 during an Alaska Airlines flight. This incident intensified scrutiny on Boeing’s practices and led to increased calls for accountability and change within the company.
In response to the challenges, Calhoun emphasized the importance of humility, transparency, and a renewed commitment to safety and quality at all levels of the company. He acknowledged that the world is closely watching Boeing’s actions and expressed confidence in the company’s ability to emerge stronger from the current situation.
Amid growing discontent among airline CEOs over manufacturing quality and production issues, Boeing has faced ongoing pressure to address its quality struggles. Calhoun has been working to reassure investors, airline customers, and the public that Boeing is taking decisive steps to address these challenges.
Calhoun took on the role of CEO in late 2019, succeeding the previous chief executive who was ousted for his handling of two deadly 737 Max crashes. The upcoming leadership changes mark a pivotal moment for Boeing as it navigates a crucial period of rebuilding trust and addressing longstanding issues within the company.