Following the dramatic mid-air window blow-out, Boeing announced that Ed Clark, the chief of its 737 aircraft program, is leaving the business.
The announcement on Wednesday (Feb 21) comes in response to safety concerns raised by a January incident involving a Boeing 737 Max 9 door panel that came off mid-flight while sailing over Oregon.
The bolts of the panel that fastened the door went missing, prompting officials to conduct an investigation on the jetliner’s safety.
Clark, who has been with Boeing for nearly 18 years and has led the 737 program since early 2021, is leaving his role effective immediately, according to a Boeing announcement.
Leadership Transitions at Boeing
Katie Ringgold, a vice president in charge of 737 delivery to airlines, will take over Clark’s responsibilities as vice president and general manager of the 737 project and the Renton facility.
This move was notified to Boeing employees by email from Stan Deal, CEO of Boeing’s commercial jets segment.
Elizabeth Lund has also been appointed senior vice president for commercial airplane quality, according to sources. Boeing emphasized an “enhanced focus on ensuring that every airplane we deliver meets or exceeds all quality and safety requirements,” according to the email.
The corporation is taking steps to address concerns expressed by authorities and the US Congress over recent safety failures.
Increased scrutiny
The Max 9 disaster has resulted in heightened scrutiny of Boeing’s operations and production methods. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grounded Max 9s in the United States for inspections, and Boeing’s manufacturing has been reduced until quality concerns are addressed.
CEO David Calhoun acknowledged the company’s role and promised to resolve the concerns voiced by the airlines. “We caused the problem, and we understand that,” media sources added, quoting Calhoun’s January 31 comments. “We understand why they are angry and we will work to earn their confidence.”
Boeing is facing increased criticism, reminiscent of prior catastrophes involving Max 8 jetliners.
Meanwhile, Boeing’s price has fallen, indicating investor anxiety over recent safety accidents and their influence on the company’s brand and financial position.
Following the door blowout incident, the Virginia-based corporation lost 19% of its stock market value, or approximately $27 billion.