This news comes at a critical time for The Boeing Company, which has been dealing with a series of safety and reliability complications with its 737 MAX series models. An alarming incident occurred in January, when an Alaska Airlines aircraft experienced the loss of a fuselage panel in mid-flight, resulting in a violent decompression of the passenger cabin, underscoring the severity of the challenges facing the company.
Calhoun's departure is not the only significant change in Boeing's leadership structure. Just over a month ago, the company fired Ed Clark, vice president and general manager of the 737 MAX program, due to persistent problems with these aircraft. Calhoun, in an emotional open letter to employees, expressed that serving Boeing has been "the greatest privilege of my life," emphasizing the critical importance of this moment for the company and his belief that Boeing emerges stronger from this crisis, maintaining an unwavering focus on completing the initiatives underway to restore stability to the company.
In addition, Boeing has announced a series of strategic changes within its Board of Directors, marking a new era in the company's governance. Larry Kellner, who has chaired the executive board for the past 13 years, will be replaced by Steve Mollenkopf, formerCEO of Qualcomm and a Boeing board member since 2020. Mollenkopf will take the lead in the process of selecting Calhoun's successor.
In another notable change, Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, has announced his retirement effective today. In his place, Stephanie Pope, who has been chief operating officer and has nearly three decades of experience within the company, has been promoted to the position of leader of the Commercial Airplanes division, assuming her new role effective immediately. These changes reflect Boeing's commitment to renewal and stability in an effort to overcome current challenges and rebuild its reputation globally.
