In 2024, Boeing's Starliner was originally scheduled to embark on its first crewed mission in early May but faced multiple delays due to technical issues, ultimately rescheduling to early June. Despite the initial excitement, the spacecraft's journey has been marred by setbacks, which have drawn comparisons to other delayed missions, such as the indefinitely postponed Axiom-4 launch.

The series of delays prompted NASA to push the Boeing Starliner crew flight to 2026 as comprehensive safety evaluations are prioritized. These challenges reflect ongoing concerns over ensuring the safety and reliability of emerging aerospace technologies. In contrast, Boeing has made significant advances in other areas, notably in the development of next-generation drone wingmen designed to cooperate with manned aircraft, signifying their commitment to innovation in various fields.

Despite these challenges, Boeing's Starliner successfully launched its first crewed mission on June 5, 2024, and returned safely to Earth. This milestone marks a key achievement for Boeing amid a landscape of both technological triumphs and obstacles, emphasizing the complex nature of modern aerospace endeavors.