NEW YORK, Jan 15, (V7N) – Boeing reported a disappointing total of 348 commercial plane deliveries in 2024, a stark decline from the previous year and less than half of the 766 aircraft delivered by its European competitor, Airbus. This decline highlights the severe impact of labor disruptions and safety issues that plagued the company throughout the year.The challenges for Boeing began with a January 2024 emergency landing of a 737 MAX operated by Alaska Airlines, which suffered a mid-flight blowout of a window panel.

This incident drew intense scrutiny from lawmakers and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), prompting Boeing to reduce its production of the MAX while enhancing quality control measures.Additionally, a seven-week labor strike in the fall halted operations at two major assembly facilities in the Seattle area, delaying production until mid-December.

As a result, the gap in commercial jet deliveries between Boeing and Airbus widened to its largest since 2020.Boeing has struggled to recover since the fatal MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019, which severely damaged its reputation. The company has not posted an annual profit since 2018, and analysts emphasize that achieving consistent production is crucial for its recovery.Looking ahead, Kelly Ortberg, Boeing's new CEO, has outlined plans for a "fundamental culture change" within the company, particularly in its relationship with organized labor.

Following a contentious strike, workers approved a new contract that includes a 38 percent wage increase.Boeing is also working on completing an acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems, a key supplier, and is preparing a revised criminal settlement with the U.S. Justice Department related to the MAX crashes.

Analysts suggest that restoring production levels, especially for the MAX, will be a top priority for 2025.Despite the challenges, Ortberg remains focused on simplifying Boeing's operations, emphasizing that commercial planes and defense will remain core products.

However, analysts caution that while streamlining efforts are welcomed, the real test will be in ramping up production and clearing out the backlog of undelivered MAX and 787 Dreamliner aircraft.In afternoon trading, Boeing's shares fell by 2.4 percent, reflecting ongoing investor concerns about the company's recovery trajectory.

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