The production slowdown at Spirit AeroSystems, a key Boeing supplier, has led to the layoff of approximately 450 workers at its Wichita, Kansas plant. This decision was made following an incident in which a panel flew off a 737 Max airplane operated by Alaska Airlines in midair in January. Spirit is responsible for making the fuselages and installing door plugs on these airplanes, making it a crucial supplier for Boeing. However, it remains unclear whether Spirit or Boeing employees were responsible for the panel incident.
Boeing has confirmed that it is currently in talks to acquire Spirit AeroSystems, a company that was once part of the plane-maker before being spun off. This potential acquisition would mark a shift in Boeing’s strategy, which previously involved outsourcing key work on its passenger planes. The decision to bring Spirit back under its umbrella comes after production and delivery disruptions caused by issues at the supplier, impacting the production of popular Boeing aircraft such as the 737s and 787s.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers union has expressed concern about the recent layoffs at Spirit. The union has pledged to support and assist the affected workers during this challenging time, emphasizing the importance of protecting the aerospace industry in Wichita. They are committed to ensuring that their members have access to the resources they need to overcome this setback and emerge stronger in the future.
The reduction in workforce at Spirit AeroSystems is a reflection of the current slowdown in delivery rates for commercial programs, forcing the company to make difficult decisions. The layoffs will trim the workforce of over 13,000 employees, representing a significant impact on the local community in Wichita. The company has stated that the recent incidents and production disruptions have contributed to the need for these job cuts, as they navigate through challenges in the aerospace industry.
The incident involving the panel flying off the Alaska Airlines 737 Max airplane has raised questions about the quality control and oversight measures in place at both Spirit AeroSystems and Boeing. The investigation into the cause of the incident is ongoing, with focus on determining the responsible party for the maintenance and installation of the panel. The outcome of this investigation may have implications for both companies and their relationship moving forward.
As Boeing continues to navigate challenges in its supply chain and production processes, the potential acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems may offer opportunities for streamlining operations and improving efficiency. By bringing key components of the production process back in-house, Boeing aims to mitigate risks associated with outsourcing and ensure better control over the quality and delivery of its aircraft. However, the impact of these changes on the workforce and the broader aerospace industry remains to be seen, as both companies work towards a more sustainable and resilient future.
