Washington (AFP)

Boeing executive boss Dennis Muilenburg, struggling for months due to the 737 MAX crisis, has resigned, the American aircraft manufacturer announced on Monday, saying a change in management is essential to restore confidence in the group .

Mr. Muilenburg's duties had already been cut in October. He had indeed lost his title of chairman of the board of directors to David Calhoun, an independent director.

It is precisely the latter that will replace it from January 13, detailed Boeing.

"Boeing chief financial officer Greg Smith will serve as interim chief executive during the short transition period," added the group.

"The board has decided that a change of direction is necessary to restore trust in the company as it strives to re-establish ties with regulators, customers and all other stakeholders", commented on Boeing.

Two accidents to its flagship 737 MAX in less than five months plunged Boeing into the most serious crisis in its history.

In an unprecedented decision for a modern aircraft, the entire 737 MAX fleet has been banned from flying since March 13.

The various technical and administrative investigations have highlighted numerous dysfunctions, particularly in the certification process for the 737 MAX.

So far, Dennis Muilenburg has refused to resign, saying it is his duty to overcome the crisis.

But nine months after the flight ban, the aviation safety authorities have still not given the green light to return the aircraft to service.

Last week, the group had to resign themselves to stop production of the MAX from January, for lack of knowing when deliveries could resume.

"Under the new leadership, Boeing will operate with a renewed commitment to full transparency, including effective and proactive communication with the FAA (the US regulator), other global regulators and its customers," said Boeing.

The aircraft manufacturer claims that David Calhoun has "extensive aeronautical industry experience" as well as solid experience as a skipper.

"I firmly 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 work hard to create the future of aviation," said the future boss. communicated.

On the Stock Exchange, the announcement was welcomed, the title Boeing leaping 3.6% shortly after opening.

© 2019 AFP