Boeing Shares Take a Hit After Air India Crash
When the New York trading floor opened, Boeing’s stock dropped more than eight percent. The drop comes in the wake of an Air India flight that crashed in India.
The Flight That Broke the Silence
Air India Flight 171 was a Boeing 787‑8 Dreamliner—the very first model in the line to touch the ground after a mishap. The 787 was introduced 14 years ago, and just six weeks before this tragedy, Boeing celebrated a milestone: carrying one billion passengers worldwide.
Boeing’s Quick Reply
In a tweet‑style statement, Boeing said:
“We are in contact with Air India regarding Flight 171 and stand ready to support them. Our thoughts are with the passengers, crew, first responders and all affected.”
It’s a familiar script, but the feel‑good vibes haven’t carried off the investor’s confidence.
The DOJ Deal and a Cracked Trust
The crash follows a $1.1 billion settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice, helping the company dodge prosecution over two fatal 737 Max crashes in 2018 and 2019 that claimed 346 lives.
Family lawyers have called the deal “morally repugnant.” In a recent BBC interview, Sanjiv Singh, counsel for families in a 2018 Indonesia crash, warned that the settlement lets the firm sidestep true criminal accountability.
Will New CEO Kelly Ortberg Take the Helm?
Today’s incident is the first time a 787 has crashed, but pressure is mounting on chief executive Kelly Ortberg to steer the company clear of its safety crises. With the world watching, Boeing’s future will hinge on how it tackles these questions.
Takeaway
- Air India’s crash shakes investor nerves.
- Boeing’s 787 is now involved in its first fatal incident.
- The company’s recent DOJ settlement continues scrutiny.
- New CEO faces tough headlines.
