Boeing 737 Max Faces Sales Challenges, Records Zero Orders for Second Consecutive Month

Boeing has encountered a significant slowdown in sales for its 737 Max aircraft, marking the second consecutive month without any new orders for this key model. The aerospace giant, which is still navigating the aftermath of its recent door-plug blowout scandal, managed to secure only four new orders for its passenger jets in May, all of which were for the 787 Dreamliners, according to the company’s orders and deliveries page. These orders were placed by EVA Air, a Taiwan-based airline.

This slump in 737 Max orders follows a troubling incident in January, when an Alaska Airlines-operated 737 Max 9 experienced a mid-flight loss of a fuselage component known as a door plug. This incident has amplified scrutiny on Boeing, leading to ongoing investigations by several authoritative bodies including the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), and the Justice Department.

In contrast to May’s disappointing figures, Boeing had a robust order book in May 2023, recording 69 orders for commercial jetliners, with 59 of those for the 737 Max planes. The stark difference in sales performance year-over-year highlights the challenges Boeing faces as it works to restore confidence in its products and operational standards.

Adding to the company’s woes, Boeing’s CEO Dave Calhoun announced his intention to step down by the end of the year, signaling a forthcoming change in leadership amidst ongoing challenges. This leadership transition comes at a critical time for Boeing as it aims to bolster its market position and navigate through the complexities brought on by recent safety concerns and regulatory scrutiny.