Boeing’s President and CEO, Kelly Ortberg, is on a three-day visit to India, marking his first international trip since assuming leadership of the US aerospace giant in August. On Tuesday, Ortberg met with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Delhi. His visit also includes interactions with Boeing employees and key customers.
“Our collaboration with India continues to deepen, and Boeing remains committed to supporting the Atma Nirbhar Bharat initiative,” stated Salil Gupte, President of Boeing India, in a recent post on social media platform X.
Currently, Indian airlines and defense forces operate a fleet of over 280 Boeing civil and military aircraft. Additionally, Indian carriers have placed orders for more than 600 Boeing planes, including models like the 737 Max, 787, and 777X.
Boeing is also expanding its defense operations and increasing its procurement from Indian suppliers. The company sources $1.25 billion worth of parts and components from India annually and has invested $200 million in its Bengaluru campus, its largest overseas investment.
Ortberg’s visit comes as Boeing navigates challenges stemming from declining sales, regulatory hurdles, and workforce concerns. In 2024, Boeing delivered 348 commercial aircraft, significantly trailing rival Airbus, which delivered 766.
Adding to its challenges, Boeing was recently sanctioned by China, along with 44 other US companies, over arms exports to Taiwan. The move highlights growing trade tensions between the two nations. Despite this, China remains a crucial market for Boeing, with over 10,000 aircraft in its fleet containing Chinese-manufactured components.
Boeing is one of the world’s largest aerospace companies and a leading manufacturer of commercial airplanes, defense systems, and space technologies. Founded in 1916, the U.S.-based company has played a pivotal role in shaping global aviation with iconic aircraft like the 737, 747, and 787 Dreamliner. Boeing’s operations span over 65 countries, with a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and partnerships. Beyond commercial aviation, the company is a key player in military aviation, space exploration, and satellite technologies.
