Boeing Replaces Starliner Program Chief Amid Ongoing Challenges
Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft program has undergone a leadership change as Mark Nappi steps down from his role. John Mulholland, previously managing Boeing’s International Space Station (ISS) program, has been appointed as the new head. Boeing confirmed the change on Thursday, stating that Nappi, who has overseen Starliner since 2022, will now focus on streamlining operations across Boeing’s space division before retiring next month.
Starliner’s Troubles and Leadership Shifts
Mulholland, who led the Starliner program from 2011 to 2020 before transitioning to the ISS program, returns at a critical time. Boeing’s Starliner, developed under a $4.5 billion NASA contract, has faced persistent engineering issues since 2019. The most significant setback came last summer when NASA had to leave astronauts aboard the ISS and return Starliner empty due to propulsion system problems.
In August, a NASA panel ruled that SpaceX’s Crew Dragon capsule should bring the astronauts back instead, citing safety concerns. This decision marked another blow for Boeing, as SpaceX continues to dominate commercial spaceflight.
Uncertain Future for Starliner Missions
Boeing and NASA are still assessing Starliner’s propulsion system, with no final decision on its next mission. It remains unclear whether Boeing will need to repeat its crewed test flight before NASA grants certification for regular missions.
Despite these challenges, Boeing aims to resolve Starliner’s issues and secure its role in NASA’s astronaut transport program. However, the setbacks have reinforced SpaceX’s lead in the private spaceflight sector.
with inputs from Reuters
