Willie Walsh, Executive Director of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), expressed support for Boeing's leadership.
The airline manufacturer's CEO, Dave Calhoun, has been under criticism and pressure since January 5, when a door panel of an Alaska Airlines jet was blown off mid-flight.
IATA is the largest and leading trade organization representing airlines.
Walsh said Calhoun was the right person at the right time to lead the company on safety issues, despite concerns about the company's manufacturing in general, not just the 737 Max 9 model at the center of the controversy. He said he was a great person.
“Boeing is taking the appropriate steps. I think they've handled this situation much better than they have in other situations,” Walsh told Reuters.
“I have heard from people that we need a change in leadership,” Walsh continued. “I don't think so. I'm sure he (Calhoun) will solve the problem.”
Mr. Walsh also said he did not expect the performance of airlines that use Boeing to decline.
The Chinese-made C919 has been a hot topic at the current Singapore Air Show, and while Walsh is impressed with the plane, he doesn't expect the Chinese to compete with Boeing or Airbus anytime soon. He said he did not.
“It's impressive and it'll be interesting to watch, but I think it's going to take a little while for them to be seen as a credible contender,” he said.
It remains to be seen whether his words of support for Boeing and Calhoun will have an impact on the company, including its stock price.
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