Boeing Faces New Setback with 737 Max Production Issue
Boeing has encountered a fresh challenge in the production of its 737 Max jets, necessitating rework on approximately 50 undelivered aircraft. This issue was revealed in a recent memo to employees from Stan Deal, the leader of Boeing’s commercial aircraft division.
The problem stems from an alert by a Spirit AeroSystems employee, a key Boeing supplier, regarding two holes that may not have been drilled in strict adherence to Boeing’s specifications on the 737 Max fuselages.
Deal’s memo emphasized that while this issue does not pose an immediate flight safety risk, and all 737 Max jets can continue to operate safely, it underscores the need for rigorous quality control measures. “We currently believe we will have to perform rework on about 50 undelivered airplanes,” the memo stated.
This latest quality concern adds to the series of challenges Boeing has faced, tarnishing its reputation over the past five years. The company is still grappling with the fallout from a serious incident on January 5 involving a 737-9, where a door plug was blown out during flight, causing cabin decompression but no severe injuries.
Boeing CEO David Calhoun addressed the January incident during a recent investor call, acknowledging Boeing’s responsibility. “We caused the problem, and we understand that,” Calhoun said, asserting Boeing’s commitment to accountability and improvement in manufacturing processes.
The Renton, Washington 737 Max factory will dedicate time this week to address this new production issue, highlighting Boeing’s prioritization of quality, safety, and stability in its operations.
Supplier and Internal Quality Control Challenges
In recent years, Boeing has increasingly relied on suppliers like Spirit AeroSystems for significant components of its aircraft, including fuselages and cockpits. However, Deal’s memo reveals that quality issues extend beyond supplier components to Boeing’s own production facilities.
A recent pause in 737 Max production for a staff meeting on quality control illuminated employee frustrations with unfinished jobs impacting the production line. “These employees are absolutely right,” Deal wrote, stressing the importance of maintaining strict adherence to job specifications and holding suppliers to the same high standards.
Boeing’s commitment to quality has led to delayed shipments from suppliers and adjustments to production schedules, aiming to enhance overall aircraft quality and operational stability.
Impact on Boeing and Its Customers
The recurring production and quality issues have significant implications for Boeing, its airline customers, and the broader aviation industry. Notably, United Airlines and Southwest Airlines have expressed concerns about receiving their 737 Max orders as scheduled, given the recent production delays and the FAA’s pending approval for new versions of the Max.
The design flaws in the 737 Max that contributed to two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019 have had a profound impact on Boeing, resulting in a 20-month grounding of the aircraft and a critical examination of its design and production practices.
As Boeing endeavors to navigate these latest production hurdles, the aviation community watches closely, hoping for a swift resolution that reinforces safety and reliability in the skies.
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, cnn.com