Boeing Faces Pivotal Moment Amid $6 Billion Loss and Ongoing Strike

Boeing’s newly appointed CEO, Kelly Ortberg, has described the company as being at a “crossroads” as it grapples with mounting losses, which have surged to around $6 billion (£4.6 billion). Ortberg, who assumed the role in August, is striving to steer the aerospace giant through a challenging period, marked by both financial setbacks and reputational damage following manufacturing and safety concerns.

The situation is further compounded by an ongoing strike involving over 30,000 Boeing workers in the United States. The strike, now in its second month, has brought production of several aircraft to a standstill. Workers are expected to cast their votes on Wednesday regarding Boeing’s latest pay and benefits offer. The proposal includes a 35% wage increase over four years, an attempt by the company to resolve the labor dispute.

In his remarks, Ortberg expressed hope that the workers would accept the offer, while acknowledging that significant challenges remain. “This is a big ship that will take some time to turn, but when it does, it has the capacity to be great again,” Ortberg said, emphasizing his commitment to stabilizing Boeing and regaining the trust of its workforce and customers.

The strike vote is a critical moment for Boeing, which is striving to recover from recent struggles while keeping its operations running smoothly. The outcome could shape the company’s future trajectory, as Ortberg works to reset the business and address lingering issues that have hurt its standing in the aerospace industry.