In a recent development surrounding Boeing’s ongoing safety concerns, CEO Dave Calhoun faced his first ever testimony before lawmakers on Tuesday. Despite a series of corporate whistleblowers, multiple groundings, and a fuselage incident, Calhoun had yet to be held accountable for the issues under his leadership.
During the two-hour hearing, Calhoun fielded tough questions from both Republican and Democratic senators. While he offered apologies for past tragedies and acknowledged the need for reform, Calhoun ultimately failed to take personal responsibility for the company’s failures.
Republican Sen. Josh Hawley pressed Calhoun on his high salary, recent raise, and lack of accountability. Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal called the hearing “a moment of reckoning for Boeing,” questioning whether real change would occur under Calhoun’s leadership.
Despite the intense scrutiny, it remains uncertain if Calhoun will face any consequences for the chaos at Boeing. The Federal Aviation Administration is reviewing the company’s safety plans, and the Justice Department has launched a criminal investigation into a recent incident. As the industry watches, many, including industry experts like Richard Aboulafia, believe that Calhoun must go for any meaningful change to occur.
