Boeing appoints Sean Black to lead development of future jet production

Boeing has named Sean Black to help lead development of its next commercial jet. Black previously led the company's Wichita manufacturing site and will become vice-president of BCA future production system, responsible for shaping the industrial blueprint for the new aircraft.

Stephanie Pope, chief executive of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, announced the appointment in a 9 September message to employees. She said Black would be involved in both aircraft design and creation of the production system, aiming to ease the transition from engineering to manufacturing.

Boeing confirmed the change is already effective. Pope's message said the company is building momentum as it ramps up airplane production and nears certification of key development programs. The Federal Aviation Administration certificated the 737 Max 7 in August, and Boeing expects to have the Max 10 certificated before the end of the year. Work on 777-9 approval is also progressing.

Boeing has not publicly detailed its strategy for the next commercial aircraft. Chief executive Kelly Ortberg has said the company needs stability and recovery before moving forward. Industry observers widely expect Boeing and rival Airbus to bring new narrowbody jets to market in the mid-to-late 2030s.