
Boeing HQ
Today’s headlines focus on Boeing’s multiple continuing problems. The big news was an interview with the astronauts on the International Space Station, with news that they may be stuck in space through the end of the month at best. While everyone expresses confidence, it is clear that there are questions about the thrusters, and Boeing is being exceptionally careful diagnosing the flaws and return options as it cannot afford a highly visible accident in space, nor having the astronauts return on its rival Elon Musk’s SpaceX vehicle.
An interesting article in the National Interests suggests a break-up of Boeing and spinning off the defense business may be acceptable to the Pentagon, which needs to give Boeing an exemption as a convicted felon to maintain government contracts. The plea agreement has provided a significant lever to force change at Boeing if the DOJ and Pentagon wish to do so.
After a Boeing-sponsored media debacle in Seattle, during which Boeing revealed confidential information regarding an on-going investigation, Boeing’s CEO Dave Calhoun called the Chairman of the National Transportation Security Board to apologize. That violation has already resulted in sanctions against Boeing, and could impact future investigations. The NTSB is the wrong party to cross.
Reaction to the plea deal continues to come in from families and other observers critical of the deal. A story indicates that Boeing is too big to fail and gained special treatment, which has upset a number of parties. Finally, Boeing’s orders and deliveries in June were not robust, particularly the low level of sales and order cancellations.
Links to today’s key stories follow:
- Boeing had enough problems on Earth – now it has them in orbit too – Sky News
- The Boeing Starliner crew may be stuck in space for the rest of the summer – Quartz
- Time to break-up Boeing? The Pentagon might not hate the idea – National Interest
- Boeing CEO called NTSB chair to apologize after MAX probe rules violation – Investing
- Boeing’s fraud case shows that some businesses are still too big to fail – The Conversation
- Boeing’s latest orders and deliveries report paints a mixed picture for the firm – Aerotime Hub
- Boeing sold just three passenger jets in last month – 24/7 Wall St.
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