Boeing replaces head of 737 Max program after midair mishap

Boeing has announced the departure of Ed Clark, vice president of the 737 MAX program, after nearly 18 years with the company. This move comes weeks after an incident where a panel detached from an Alaska Airlines flight midair on January 5, forcing an emergency landing.

Clark, previously the chief mechanic and engineer for the 737, was appointed head of the program in 2021, becoming the fifth person to lead it in four years. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) responded by temporarily grounding all 737 MAX-9 planes.

The investigation into the incident revealed that bolts intended to secure the panel were missing upon departure from the Boeing factory, leading to the FAA restricting Boeing’s production of the 737 MAX-9 jets.

Regulators have curbed Boeing production and the company’s been closely scrutinized by lawmakers and clients since the January incident.

A memo announcing the shake-up from CEO Stan Deal said Boeing was working to ensure that quote “every airplane we deliver meets or exceeds all quality and safety requirements.”

In response to the incident and its implications for safety, Boeing has communicated to its employees through an email about several leadership changes. The company emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety of all its aircraft, indicating a focus on rigorous safety standards and oversight in its operations.

Katie Ringgold is set to become the new vice president and general manager of the 737 program, as announced in the staff memo, according to Reuters.

Boeing also announced Elizabeth Lund as the new Senior Vice President for Commercial Airlines Quality, overseeing quality control and assurance. Mike Fleming will take over her previous role as Senior Vice President and General Manager of Airplane Programs, while also continuing to lead the customer support team.