Boeing has announced significant progress in the refurbishment of the CST-100 Starliner crewed spacecraft. According to the latest data, the company plans to return the vehicle to flight operations by the end of 2026. Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg confirmed that the main technical work to address identified deficiencies is nearing completion, although the final launch date will be coordinated with NASA.

From Crewed Failure to Cargo Launch

The next step for Starliner will most likely not be a crewed flight, but rather an uncrewed cargo mission to the International Space Station (ISS). This decision is a direct consequence of the problems that arose during the crewed test flight in June 2024.

At that time, the spacecraft successfully delivered astronauts Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams to orbit and docked with the station. However, during the approach and maneuvering, critical failures occurred: several attitude control thrusters failed, and helium leaks were detected. Due to these malfunctions, NASA deemed returning the crew aboard Starliner too risky. The spacecraft returned to Earth autonomously, without people, while the astronauts returned home later on a SpaceX Crew Dragon.

Investigation and Major Refurbishments

Following the incident, NASA classified the event as a Type-A anomaly—the most serious category of failure. During the investigation, specialists discovered deep design flaws that existed even in the early stages of development. Specifically, it was found that certain components operated outside certified modes, and the system did not meet redundancy requirements for deorbiting.

In response to these findings, Boeing launched a major modernization program:

  • Upgrading the attitude control thrusters to improve reliability.
  • Eliminating the causes of helium leaks in the propulsion systems.
  • Complete update of the spacecraft's software.
  • Conducting a series of extensive ground tests in conjunction with NASA.

ISS Logistics as a Deciding Factor

Even after the successful completion of all technical upgrades and certification, the timeline for Starliner's return to flight will depend on the ISS schedule. Only two docking ports on the Harmony module are available, which are regularly occupied by Crew Dragon and other vehicles.

If the completion of tests, receipt of the safety certificate, and available docking ports coincide in time, the uncrewed mission could take place by the end of 2026. This flight will be the first step towards resuming regular commercial Starliner flights under the Commercial Crew Program.