Boeing(BA) The Motley Fool·2025-01-09 13:43Boeing's Performance in 2024 - Boeing's shares declined by 32.1% in 2024, reflecting a challenging year marked by operational issues, labor disputes, and management changes [1] - The company faced significant cash outflows and disappointing airplane deliveries, particularly for the 737 MAX [1] Commercial Aerospace Challenges - A high-profile door plug blowout on a Boeing 737 MAX raised safety and quality concerns, leading to slowed deliveries in the spring [2] - A protracted labor dispute resulted in strikes and production shutdowns, preventing Boeing from achieving its target of 38 monthly 737 MAX deliveries [3] - The 777X program faced further delays, with the first delivery now expected in 2026, increasing costs and tying up cash in inventory [4] Defense Segment Struggles - Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) faced ongoing supply chain pressures and incurred charges on fixed-price development programs procured during less inflationary times [5] Leadership Changes and Future Outlook - Industry veteran Kelly Ortberg replaced Dave Calhoun as CEO in August 2024, and Ted Colbert stepped down as BDS CEO in September [6] - Despite challenges, Boeing secured a large 737 MAX order from Pegasus Airlines, indicating continued airline confidence [7] - The company has a multiyear backlog of 737 MAX orders and remains optimistic about demand for widebodies like the 777X [7] - If execution improves under Ortberg, Boeing could see a strong 2025 and work toward developing a new plane by 2035 [8]