Fact Check: Boeing’s chief executive, Kelly Ortberg, and Stephanie Pope, head of its commercial planes division, told staff in a message on Thursday evening that they had cancelled plans to attend the event.

Fact Check: Boeing Executives Cancel Paris Airshow Attendance

What We Know

On June 12, 2025, Boeing's CEO Kelly Ortberg and the head of its commercial planes division, Stephanie Pope, announced that they would not attend the upcoming Paris Airshow. This decision came in the wake of a tragic crash involving an Air India Boeing 787-8, which resulted in the loss of over 240 lives shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad, India. In a message to Boeing employees, Ortberg stated, "As our industry prepares to start the Paris air show, Stephanie and I have both cancelled plans to attend so we can be with our team and focus on our customer and the investigation" (FlightGlobal, Aeronews Journal). The crash, which occurred during the aircraft's ascent, has led to an ongoing investigation, and both executives expressed the importance of allowing investigators to do their work without speculation (Reuters).

Analysis

The claim that Kelly Ortberg and Stephanie Pope canceled their attendance at the Paris Airshow is supported by multiple credible sources. Both FlightGlobal and Reuters confirm the cancellation, citing Ortberg's message to employees as a primary source of information. The context surrounding the cancellation is significant, as it reflects Boeing's response to a major crisis in the aviation industry, which has historically affected public perception and trust in the company.

The reliability of the sources used in this fact-check is high. FlightGlobal is a well-respected publication within the aviation community, known for its in-depth reporting and analysis. Reuters is a global news organization with a reputation for accurate and timely reporting. Both sources provide detailed accounts of the events leading to the cancellation and the implications for Boeing's public relations strategy.

Furthermore, the timing of the announcement is crucial; it occurred just days before the Paris Airshow, a major event for the aviation industry, where companies typically showcase new products and innovations. The decision to cancel attendance underscores the seriousness of the situation and Boeing's commitment to addressing the aftermath of the crash rather than participating in a promotional event.

Conclusion

The claim that Boeing's CEO Kelly Ortberg and Stephanie Pope canceled their plans to attend the Paris Airshow is True. The evidence from multiple reputable sources confirms that the executives made this decision in light of the tragic Air India crash, prioritizing their focus on the investigation and support for affected parties over public appearances.

Sources

1. Boeing CEO cancels air show appearance visit after India crash
2. Air India crash is the latest test for new Boeing leadership
3. Boeing CEO and commercial chief to sit out Paris show following crash
4. Fatal Crash Leads to Boeing CEO Skipping Paris Airshow, GE Postponing Investor Day
5. Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg's leadership in question as planemaker faces another crisis
6. Boeing CEO Ortberg cancels Paris Airshow visit after Air India crash
7. Air India Crash Prompts Boeing Top Execs, Including CEO Ortberg, To Cancel Paris Air Show Visit
8. Boeing CEO cancels trip to Paris Airshow, GE postpones