Ryanair Holdings Plc’s CEO, Michael O’Leary, has expressed support for the recent management changes at Boeing Co., stating that they were much needed. This comes as one of the first public comments from an executive at a major airline since CEO Dave Calhoun announced his departure.

The Irish budget carrier released a statement titled “Ryanair welcomes Boeing management changes in Seattle,” indicating its belief that the changes are necessary and beneficial for Boeing and its customers. The company also mentioned that Chairman Larry Kellner will not stand for reelection, and Stan Deal, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, will retire immediately, with Chief Operating Officer Stephanie Pope replacing him.

Michael O’Leary previously emphasized the need for management changes at Boeing’s Seattle operations, citing unacceptable performance. The carrier has been vocal about its frustration over delivery delays, which are expected to impact its growth during the crucial peak summer travel season.

In the statement, O’Leary expressed eagerness to work with Stephanie Pope to expedite B737 aircraft deliveries to customers, including Ryanair in Europe, for Summer and Autumn 2024. Ryanair highlighted that the delivery delays have been hindering its growth projections for 2024, leading to a reduction in its annual passenger forecast due to the expected receipt of only 40 out of 57 Max planes before the end of June.