United Airlines CEO Optimistic About Boeing’s Recovery After Meeting New CEO
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby has expressed renewed optimism about Boeing’s future following a recent meeting with Boeing’s new CEO, Robert “Kelly” Ortberg. This marks a positive shift in tone from Kirby, who has been vocally critical of Boeing due to ongoing delays affecting aircraft deliveries. United, a significant Boeing customer with 484 unfilled orders, has felt the impact of these delays keenly.
The meeting took place earlier this week over lunch in the Dallas area, where Kirby came away with heightened confidence in Boeing’s recovery trajectory. “I was not only encouraged by what I heard, but I also came away with a renewed confidence that Boeing is on the right path and will recover faster than most expect,” Kirby stated in a LinkedIn post on Thursday.
Ortberg, who assumed leadership at Boeing last week, also met with American Airlines CEO Robert Isom as part of his initial engagements. His background includes over three decades at commercial and defense supplier Rockwell Collins, culminating in a leadership philosophy that emphasizes proximity to frontline operations and engineering expertise.
During his first day on the job, Ortberg spent time on the Boeing 737 factory floor in Renton, Washington, underscoring his commitment to being closely involved in the day-to-day operations of the company. This approach is reflected in his decision to be based in Seattle, closer to Boeing’s major production facilities.
Kirby highlighted Ortberg’s understanding of the necessary cultural shifts within Boeing, his commitment to engaging with employees and customers, and his hands-on approach to management. “It was clear from our discussion that he’s 100% engaged, understands the cultural changes needed to turn things around and is committed to listening to his employees and customers,” Kirby noted.
The aerospace industry watches closely as Boeing continues to navigate its recovery from a series of manufacturing challenges and safety issues, including a door plug blowout on an Alaska Airlines 737 Max 9 earlier this year. This incident, although not resulting in serious injuries, underscored the ongoing challenges Boeing faces with manufacturing defects.
Ortberg’s leadership comes at a crucial time, with airline partners like United and Southwest Airlines eager for Boeing to resolve these issues promptly. “In speaking with our customers and industry partners leading up to today, I can tell you that without exception, everyone wants us to succeed,” Ortberg conveyed in a staff memo, highlighting the widespread desire for Boeing’s successful turnaround.
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, cnbc.com