This archive report was first published on 25 December 2019.
On December 23, 2019, Boeing's board announced the departure of its CEO, Dennis Muilenburg, amidst growing pressure following two devastating plane crashes.
Manuel von Ribbeck, a lawyer representing the majority of the families of the two Boeing Max 8 plane crashes, expressed optimism about the changes, saying, “Boeing is making changes and hopefully these modifications in their operations and aircraft design will focus on the safety of its planes.”
Boeing's new CEO, David Calhoun, will take over on January 13, 2020, replacing Dennis Muilenburg. Calhoun had served as chairman since October 2019.
Lawyers representing the families of the victims have welcomed the change in leadership, with Manuel von Ribbeck stating that the majority of the families do not wish for more accidents and appreciate changes that will prevent these tragedies.
Boeing's board stated that a change in leadership was necessary to restore confidence in the company and repair relationships with regulators, customers, and stakeholders.
Calhoun will now focus on cleaning the image of Boeing 737 Max 8, which has been grounded for close to nine months. He expressed his commitment to the company and its employees, saying, “I strongly believe in the future of Boeing and the 737 Max. I am honored to lead this great company and the 150,000 dedicated employees who are working hard to create the future of aviation.”
