The head of Dubai's Emirates airline, Tim Clark, has urged Boeing to appoint a leader with a powerful combination of engineering expertise and business acumen to steer the American aerospace giant through a period of crisis. Clark, a vocal critic during Boeing's recent struggles, believes the company needs a deep overhaul and a CEO "fixated on doing the right thing" to regain public confidence.
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Emirates, a major customer of Boeing, has been impacted by the manufacturer's challenges, including production delays and safety issues. Most notably, the 737 MAX grounding following two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019 significantly disrupted airlines around the world. Clark emphasized the urgency of finding the right leader, suggesting a turnaround could take as long as five years.
Boeing is currently looking for a new CEO after Dave Calhoun, who took the helm in 2020 following the 737 MAX crisis, announced his intention to step down by the end of the year. Clark stopped short of suggesting specific candidates but underlined the importance of a leader with a strong understanding of engineering principles alongside business management skills.
While acknowledging the severity of the situation, Clark expressed optimism about Boeing's ability to recover. "Is it fixable and salvageable? Yes, it is," he declared. However, he stressed that achieving this goal hinges on appointing a strong leader who prioritizes safety and rebuilding trust. The global aviation industry, with Emirates as a key player, is watching closely as Boeing embarks on its search for a new CEO, a decision that could significantly impact the future of the aerospace giant.