BOEING STARLINER MAY LAUNCH THIS YEAR

The crewed spacecraft has faced multiple setbacks since its initial target launch date in 2017. Boeing is developing Starliner to transport astronauts to the International Space Station under NASA's Commercial Crew Program, competing alongside SpaceX's Dragon capsule. "We're feeling pretty good about that," Ortberg said regarding the launch timeline. The company has completed multiple uncrewed test flights and addressed technical issues identified during previous attempts. Starliner's delays have extended development costs significantly. Boeing received a $4.2 billion contract from NASA, though the extended timeline has tested the program's viability against SpaceX's operational Dragon missions. A successful launch this year would represent a major milestone for Boeing's space ambitions and provide NASA with a second domestic crew transport option.