In a stunning turn of events, Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg has announced the closure of the company’s controversial $14 billion Shadow Factories, a move that has sent shockwaves through the aviation industry. This dramatic decision comes just weeks after the catastrophic crash of Air India Flight 171, which claimed the lives of all 241 on board, marking a dark chapter for Boeing as it grapples with mounting scrutiny over safety and production practices.

The Shadow Factories, located in Moses Lake and Everett, were established as emergency repair hubs for the beleaguered 737 Max and Dreamliner jets, which have been plagued by production delays and safety scandals. Once seen as a desperate fix to Boeing’s manufacturing woes, these facilities symbolized the company’s struggle to regain its footing amid a backdrop of crises, including a $5.5 billion loss from a machinist strike last year.

As investigations into the Air India crash intensify, Boeing finds itself under the microscope from global regulators, and the stakes have never been higher. The FAA has imposed strict production caps, limiting the output of the 737 Max to just 38 jets per month, while competitors like Airbus continue to dominate the market with record-breaking orders.

Despite delivering 45 jets in May and securing 303 new aircraft orders, the company’s reputation hangs by a thread. Insiders describe a culture of fear within Boeing, where concerns over safety are often silenced in favor of meeting aggressive production targets. With the Shadow Factories now decommissioned, the pressure is on Ortberg to not only restore Boeing’s standing but to ensure that the company can deliver aircraft that are safe and reliable.

The aviation world is watching closely. As Boeing attempts to rebuild its image, it faces a daunting challenge: to transform from a company marred by scandal into a beacon of safety and innovation. The future of Boeing—and the trust of the flying public—now rests on its ability to navigate this precarious moment.