Boeing faces fresh challenges with its 737 Max jets as a new production problem emerges, requiring immediate rework on approximately 50 undelivered planes. The issue, revealed in a memo from Stan Deal, head of Boeing’s commercial aircraft unit, highlights mis-drilled holes in the fuselages produced by supplier Spirit AeroSystems. While not an immediate flight safety concern, Boeing deems rework necessary, adding to the company’s recent struggles.
The memo discloses that an employee at Spirit AeroSystems identified that two holes may not align with Boeing’s requirements. Boeing emphasizes that all 737s can continue to operate safely, but rework is deemed essential to meet the company’s quality standards. Spirit AeroSystems has confirmed the mis-drilled holes and is actively collaborating with Boeing on appropriate repair solutions.
This setback compounds Boeing’s recent challenges, including a harrowing incident on a 737 Max 9 flight where a door plug blew out, causing significant damage. Boeing CEO David Calhoun acknowledged accountability for the incident, emphasizing the need for improvement and accountability.
Deal’s memo outlines Boeing’s commitment to addressing the issue promptly, dedicating several days at the 737 Max factory in Renton, Washington, to focus on rework. It underscores Boeing’s emphasis on quality, safety, and stability in production.
In recent years, Boeing has increasingly relied on suppliers like Spirit AeroSystems for key components, including fuselages, as part of cost-cutting measures. Deal acknowledges challenges with supplier products not meeting standards, prompting Boeing to intensify efforts to ensure jobs are completed to specification.
A recent production halt for a staff meeting on quality control revealed frustration among employees regarding unfinished jobs from suppliers or within Boeing’s own facilities. Deal acknowledges the importance of maintaining discipline and holding suppliers to the same high standards.
Boeing’s commitment to quality is emphasized by instructing a major supplier to hold shipments until all jobs meet specifications, even if it affects the production schedule. Boeing has faced delivery halts in recent years due to planes not meeting specifications, resulting in ongoing losses.
Major customers, including United Airlines and Southwest Airlines, have reconsidered their orders for new versions of the 737 Max. United CEO Scott Kirby cites the recent incident on an Alaska Airlines flight as a factor in reassessing plans for taking deliveries of the Max 10 later this year.
The latest production challenge adds to Boeing’s woes, reflecting the company’s determination to overcome setbacks, improve processes, and deliver aircraft that meet the highest safety and quality standards.
