Boeing's Jet Set

Boeing, reeling from safety problems and huge financial losses, faces backlash over revealing lavish executive perks. Recent disclosures show $1.9 million spent on personal air travel for top executives since 2021, exacerbating its $31 billion losses from the 737 Max crashes and pandemic impact since 2019.

Executive Perks in Sharp Focus

Boeing execs like CEO Dave Calhoun, CFO Brian West, former commercial airplane unit CEO Stan Deal, and Theodore Colbert, CEO of defense and space, indulged in lavish personal air travel. Calhoun alone racked up $979,000 over three years, with company spending hitting at least $734,000 in 2022, $306,000 in 2021, and $872,000 in 2023.

Boeing's Broad Challenges

This lavish spending comes at a time when Boeing faces intense public and regulatory scrutiny. A dramatic mid-air fuselage blowout in January, along with other safety mishaps, has led to several federal investigations and significant changes within the executive ranks.

Policy Scrutiny and Revisions

Boeing's CEO and top execs must use private jets for safety. An internal review found some personal flights labeled as business, sparking revised disclosures and questions about the perks' necessity during tough times.

Executive Compensation and Public Image

In the realm of executive compensation, CEO Dave Calhoun’s package in 2023 was reported at $32.8 million, marking a 45% increase from the previous year, even as he declined a $2.8 million annual incentive bonus following the 737 Max incident.

Implications for Boeing’s Future

As Boeing prepares for executive transitions and continues to face scrutiny, the focus on its spending and safety practices will likely influence the company’s strategies and policies moving forward.