Boeing Taps Industry Veteran to Overhaul Aircraft Certification Process
Boeing has appointed Doug Ackerman to lead a review of its aircraft certification processes. The move comes as Boeing prepares for its next airliner and amid ongoing delays in certifying its current models, including the 737-10 and 777-9.
Ackerman brings extensive experience in engineering and certification work to his new role. He has been with Boeing since 1990 and previously served as the 777 airplane-level integration chief engineer, overseeing organizations responsible for aircraft safety, certification, and performance.
The review is aimed at shaping a future-state certification model, according to Boeing's CEO Kelly Ortberg. Ackerman will work on developing a new approach that meets current regulatory requirements while also positioning Boeing for future growth.
The 737-10 faces another delay in its certification process due to a software issue. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has put off certification until the issue is resolved, with no revised approval date announced yet.