Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur and head of SpaceX, has predicted that aircraft companies will not dominate the space industry, drawing a parallel to the failed attempts of car manufacturers to dominate air travel. Musk was specifically addressing Boeing, a major aircraft manufacturer that also produces space systems.
Musk’s statement came in response to a user on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. He pointed to Boeing’s recent difficulties with its Starliner spacecraft as an example of this trend. The Starliner spacecraft was initially launched in June with two astronauts on board but has faced technical issues, resulting in a delayed return journey. NASA has since decided to bring the astronauts back to Earth using a SpaceX vehicle.
Musk acknowledged Boeing’s past failures in the space segment, noting that numerous automakers have attempted to enter the air transport industry with limited success. Ford, for instance, produced the 199 Trimotor aircraft before shutting down its airplane division in 1933 due to poor sales. Other manufacturers like Honda, Fiat, and Mitsubishi have also ventured into aircraft manufacturing.
Despite the setbacks, Musk expressed optimism for Boeing’s future under its new CEO, Kelly Ortberg, who took over from Dave Calhoun earlier this month. He emphasized the importance of Ortberg’s focus on factory operations, believing it to be a positive move for the company.
This is not the only challenge Boeing is facing. The company has been subject to intense regulatory scrutiny following an incident in January where a door plug panel detached from an Alaska Airlines plane manufactured by Boeing shortly after takeoff.
Musk’s statement and Boeing’s recent struggles highlight the ongoing shift in the space industry, with companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin emerging as major players. The future of space exploration is likely to be shaped by a mix of established companies like Boeing and new entrants, bringing innovation and competition to the field.
