Faced with the difficulties encountered by the 737 Max program, the executive director of Boeing, Dennis Muilenburg, has resigned, the American aircraft manufacturer announced on Monday 23 December, believing that a change in management was essential to restore confidence in the group.
The duties of Dennis Muilenburg had already been reduced 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 of directors decided that a change of management was necessary to restore confidence in the company.
Boeing is working to restore links with regulators, customers and all other stakeholders, "said Boeing.
The most serious crisis in its history
Two accidents in 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.
>> Crash of Boeing 737 Max off Indonesia: report calls into question a design flaw
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, failing to know when deliveries could resume.
"A commitment to total transparency"
"Under the new leadership, Boeing will operate with a renewed commitment to total transparency, including effective and proactive communication (...)," 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," commented the future boss, quoted in the press release. On the Stock Exchange, the announcement was welcomed, the title Boeing leaping 3.6% shortly after opening.
With AFP
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