(Adds prepared remarks to Senate committee, other details throughout.)

Boeing (BA) Chief Executive Kelly Ortberg acknowledged during a US Senate committee hearing on Wednesday that the aircraft maker has "made serious missteps in recent years" but pledged it was undertaking "sweeping changes" to fix safety lapses and broader operational issues.

Ortberg was named Boeing CEO in August following a a string of problems at the company, including a January 2024 incident when a door plug on a 737 Max jet flown by Alaska Airlines (ALK) blew off in mid-air minutes after takeoff.

Ortberg told the US Senate Commerce Committee that improvements in Boeing's safety programs have been its most important change, with the company also working quickly to better align its quality and integrity efforts.

"That starts with our leadership -- me included -- spending more time listening and learning from our employees, working to restore trust and holding leadership accountable," he said.

Boeing shares were 0.2% lower in midday trading.

Price: 167.86, Change: -0.31, Percent Change: -0.18