NASA Classifies Boeing Starliner's First Crewed Flight as 'Type A' Mishap

The agency now acknowledges the situation was far more precarious than initially disclosed.

Feb. 25, 2026 at 8:10am

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NASA has officially classified the first crewed flight of Boeing's Starliner spacecraft as a Type A mishap, the agency's highest level of incident designation. While the astronauts returned safely, the mission encountered a series of critical issues, including failures in the service module's thrusters and helium leaks in the pressurization system. At times, the spacecraft experienced a loss of control in all six degrees of freedom, a technically challenging situation that threatened mission success. NASA has now demanded corrections to the propulsion system, additional testing, and a comprehensive review of certification and oversight processes before clearing the Starliner for another crewed mission.

Why it matters

The Starliner program has faced significant delays since 2019, and having two independent providers for astronaut transportation to the International Space Station is strategically crucial for NASA. However, safety remains the paramount concern, and the agency is now ensuring leadership accountability and a thorough investigation before the Starliner is cleared for another crewed flight.

The details

Multiple failures in the service module's thrusters and helium leaks in the pressurization system were detected during the Starliner's first crewed flight. At times, the spacecraft experienced a loss of control in all six degrees of freedom, a technically challenging situation that threatened mission success. NASA ultimately decided to return the astronauts to Earth aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule rather than utilizing the Starliner for the return trip due to concerns over the reliability of the propulsion system for reentry.

  • The Starliner's Crewed Flight Test (CFT) was launched on June 5, 2024.
  • The astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, returned to Earth aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule in March 2025.
  • The Starliner capsule itself completed an uncrewed return to Earth on September 6, 2024.

The players

NASA

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the independent agency of the executive branch of the United States federal government responsible for the civilian space program, as well as aeronautics and space research.

Boeing

An American multinational corporation that designs, manufactures, and sells airplanes, rotorcraft, rockets, satellites, and missiles worldwide.

Butch Wilmore

One of the astronauts who flew on the Starliner's first crewed flight.

Suni Williams

One of the astronauts who flew on the Starliner's first crewed flight.

Jared Isaacman

The NASA Administrator who stated that the technical difficulties encountered during docking with the ISS were 'very apparent' and emphasized the need for transparency and accountability.

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What they’re saying

“We must look forward to working with Boeing as both organizations implement corrective actions and return Starliner to flight only when ready.”

— Jared Isaacman, NASA Administrator

What’s next

Before authorizing another crewed flight, Boeing must demonstrate that the identified issues have been fully resolved. The future of the Starliner hinges on its ability to meet these stringent requirements and regain the confidence of NASA and the public.

The takeaway

The Starliner program's first crewed flight being classified as a 'Type A' mishap by NASA highlights the importance of transparency, accountability, and safety in the commercial spaceflight industry. This incident will likely lead to a thorough review and implementation of corrective actions to ensure the Starliner's reliability and readiness for future crewed missions.