By Aviators360.com News Desk | July 29, 2026
SEATTLE – Boeing President and CEO Kelly Ortberg reaffirmed the aerospace giant’s commitment to its 2026 business plan, emphasizing that the company is making solid progress on production ramps, certifications, and rebuilding trust with customers and regulators alike.
In an exclusive live interview with CNBC’s Squawk on the Street following the release of Boeing’s second-quarter earnings report, Ortberg struck an optimistic yet measured tone, acknowledging the work ahead while celebrating the milestones achieved.
“A Real Solid Quarter” for Execution
Ortberg described the second quarter as a turning point for the company, highlighting improved operational performance across all business segments.
“This was a real solid quarter for us in terms of execution. We’re ramping up production just as we planned. That’s driving higher revenues and improved cash flow.”
— Kelly Ortberg, Boeing President & CEO
The CEO stressed that the company’s renewed focus on safety and quality is the foundation upon which all progress is built. He coined the mantra “better performance, better production” as the guiding principle for rebuilding stakeholder confidence.
However, Ortberg was quick to add that the journey is far from over, noting that more work lies ahead to complete commercial airplane certifications, scale production further, and uphold customer commitments to strengthen Boeing’s long-term financial outlook.
Commercial Certifications: 737-7, 737-10 & 777-9 Updates
One of the most significant announcements from the interview was the status of Boeing’s commercial aircraft certification programs.
737 MAX Family
Ortberg confirmed that Boeing has completed all flight testing for both the 737-7 and 737-10 variants. The company now awaits final certification from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), with the 737-7 expected to receive approval soon, followed closely by the 737-10.
“Those airplanes make up an important part of our backlog, so that we can start delivering those aircraft in 2027.”
— Ortberg on 737-7 and 737-10 certifications
The certification of these two MAX variants is seen as critical for Boeing’s order book, as airlines worldwide have been waiting for the stretched and enhanced versions to modernize their fleets.
777X Program
On the 777-9, Ortberg acknowledged that the team continues to work diligently toward certification, with first delivery now planned for 2027. Despite the delay, he noted that there is “super strong” demand for the wide-body aircraft, and he expects the backlog to grow once the type is certified.
Boeing’s 777X program has faced multiple regulatory hurdles and design refinements, but Ortberg’s comments signal confidence that the certification process is progressing.
Defense Progress: VC-25B, T-7 & MQ-25
VC-25B – The Next Presidential Aircraft
Boeing is also making headway on its fixed-price defense programs, particularly the VC-25B program, which will deliver the next generation of U.S. presidential aircraft.
Ortberg revealed that Boeing is investing significant resources to keep the program on schedule for a 2028 delivery. He highlighted a major milestone:
“The good news is we’re through the design phase of that program and now we’re modifying and testing the airplanes.”
— Ortberg on VC-25B progress
T-7 & MQ-25 Programs
The CEO also noted that Boeing secured approval to begin low-rate initial production (LRIP) for both the T-7 Red Hawk trainer aircraft and the MQ-25 Stingray unmanned aerial refueling system during the second quarter. These approvals mark significant de-risking moments for the company’s fixed-price defense portfolio.
However, Ortberg offered a candid warning about fixed-price contracts:
“Fixed-price programs are never done until they’re done.”
This acknowledgment reflects Boeing’s continued vigilance in managing cost and schedule risks on defense contracts that have previously impacted profitability.
Building Trust – The Boeing Way Forward
Throughout the interview, Ortberg returned to the theme of trust – not as a buzzword, but as a measurable outcome of consistent execution.
| Key Pillar | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| Safety | Embedding quality into every production step |
| Quality | Reducing defects and improving first-time yield |
| Production | Ramping output as planned to meet delivery targets |
| Certifications | Securing FAA approvals for 737-7, 737-10 & 777-9 |
| Customer Trust | Delivering on commitments and rebuilding relationships |
Ortberg’s message was clear: execution builds trust, and trust builds business.
Market Reaction & Analyst Views
Following the earnings release and Ortberg’s interview, Boeing’s stock showed positive momentum, reflecting investor confidence in the company’s disciplined approach to recovery.
Aviation analysts have noted that Boeing’s focus on certifications and defense program milestones is exactly what the company needs to regain its competitive edge against rivals, particularly in the narrow-body and wide-body commercial markets.
What’s Next for Boeing?
Looking ahead to the remainder of 2026 and into 2027, Boeing’s priorities remain:
Certification of 737-7 and 737-10 by FAA
First deliveries of both MAX variants in 2027
Continued 777-9 certification work with first delivery in 2027
VC-25B testing and modification for 2028 delivery
LRIP ramp-up for T-7 and MQ-25 programs
Conclusion
Boeing’s second-quarter performance and Ortberg’s transparent assessment suggest that the company is turning a corner after years of turbulence. While challenges remain – particularly in completing certifications and managing fixed-price defense programs – the direction is clear.
As Ortberg put it:
“By staying focused on safety and quality, we’re building trust with better performance, better production.”
For Boeing, 2026 is shaping up to be the year of execution, delivery, and renewed credibility – exactly what the aviation world has been waiting to see.
Stay tuned to Aviators360.com for more updates on Boeing, aviation news, and global aerospace developments.