Boeing 737 Max Production Recovery Delayed Amid Continued Supply Chain Challenges

Boeing’s recovery efforts for its 737 Max production are facing further delays, according to a report from Reuters. The aerospace giant had initially aimed to increase output to 42 planes per month by September 2024, but that target has now been postponed until July 2025 due to ongoing supply chain issues.

The setback follows a turbulent year for Boeing, which has struggled since a door plug malfunction in January grounded several of its 737 Max aircraft. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) subsequently capped production at 38 planes per month.

Boeing has not commented directly on the delay but referred to earlier statements from CFO Brian West. During a July earnings call, West emphasized the importance of aligning the supply chain with final assembly operations to maintain production stability. Despite urging suppliers to maintain their output, Boeing has been unable to use components at the rate suppliers were accustomed to, causing further disruptions.

The delay is causing frustration among Boeing’s supply chain partners. The CEO of electronics supplier Astronics acknowledged the lack of clarity around Boeing’s production ramp-up, adding that suppliers remain uncertain about future timelines.

The FAA has yet to lift the production cap on the 737 Max, with its head, Mike Whitaker, indicating that it may take several more months before any significant changes are made.