Boeing CEO Cancels Paris Airshow Trip, GE Postpones Investor Day After Air India Crash

Seattle / Paris / Bengaluru, June 13 — In a move that underscores the gravity of the recent Air India Boeing 787 crash, aerospace giants Boeing and GE Aerospace have scaled back major events at the upcoming Paris Airshow, which runs June 16–20 at Le Bourget.

Boeing’s Leadership on Ground

In a company-wide message, Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg, alongside Boeing Commercial Airplanes head Stephanie Pope, announced they will not attend the Paris Airshow, instead focusing on supporting employees, customers, and aiding in the ongoing crash investigation.

This crash, involving a 787 Dreamliner operated by Air India, tragically resulted in over 240 fatalities, marking the first-ever fatal accident involving this aircraft model .

GE Aerospace Also Pulls Back

Engine supplier GE Aerospace, whose engines powered the ill-fated Dreamliner, has also postponed its investor day originally scheduled for June 17 during the airshow. The company has deployed a leadership team to India to assist investigations and reaffirmed that supporting customers and the probe is its top priority.

Paris Airshow Impact

The accident has cast a somber tone over what is typically a high-energy aerospace showcase:

• Delegates report fewer press conferences and high-profile announcements as a mark of respect.

• Some companies may delay new orders or product launches out of sensitivity to the tragedy .

Despite this, insiders believe the show will proceed, albeit with a more reflective atmosphere.

Long Shadow of Aviation Safety

Boeing and GE’s withdrawals highlight both firms’ commitment to responsible crisis management. It also draws attention to ongoing scrutiny over Boeing’s safety record, especially as the Dreamliner crash raises fresh concerns within the industry .

 Looking Ahead

• Crash investigation: Teams from Boeing, GE, and the Indian authorities are working to determine the cause.

• Paris show proceedings: Exhibitors may adjust schedules; deal-making may be paused pending further clarity.

• Industry signal: The response sets a precedent—safety and empathy are now major factors in event planning and corporate appearances.

Bottom Line

This incident underscores the fragility of the aerospace industry’s balance between business momentum and human impact. Boeing and GE’s decision to quiet their presence at the Paris Airshow reflects respect for victims, corporate responsibility, and a deepened focus on safety.