NASA's Starliner Troubles: Boeing Faces Uncertain Future

NASA's decision to return Boeing's Starliner capsule without astronauts highlights ongoing challenges for the aerospace giant. Analysts question the future of Boeing's space division as Starliner faces persistent issues. Boeing's new CEO must decide whether to continue investing in the project amidst delays, technical problems, and mounting costs.

NASA's decision to send Boeing's Starliner capsule home without astronauts underscores longstanding challenges faced by the aerospace firm in its space operations. The move raises concerns about the future of Boeing's space division, industry analysts and sources commented.

The mission, intended to take NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams to the International Space Station (ISS), was expected to be a crucial milestone for Starliner. However, technical glitches, supply chain issues, and delays have plagued the project, costing Boeing $1.6 billion in overruns since 2016. The astronauts are set to return in a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule next year, further highlighting Boeing's struggles against Elon Musk's SpaceX.

Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg now faces a critical decision: whether to keep investing in the Starliner project or reallocate resources to repair the company's reputation in its core planemaking business. Boeing's space troubles extend beyond Starliner, with delays and budget overruns affecting other high-profile projects like the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket. NASA remains committed but noncommittal about Starliner's future, leaving Boeing at a crossroad.

(With inputs from agencies.)