Boeing fires space chief after Starliner problems

Steve Parker, previously responsible for operational matters at the branch, will take over the interim leadership of the department.

Due to numerous technical problems with the Boeing-built Starliner spacecraft, two astronauts have been stuck on the International Space Station (ISS) for months. After many delays, the spacecraft was launched to the ISS in June. During the flight, a helium leak was discovered. There were also problems with the propulsion system and the crew heard strange noises coming from the capsule.

The astronauts were supposed to stay in space for about a week, but the American space agency NASA said it did not want to take any unnecessary risks with them. Due to all the problems, they are now in the ISS until February, when they will be picked up in another capsule.

Boeing’s defense and aerospace division is also struggling with other problems, including significant cost overruns on the conversion of two 747s into new planes for U.S. presidents. The unit lost about $1 billion last quarter, and the current quarter looks set to be no better.