Boeing to delay 737 Max deliveries after new supplier defect surfaces

The Boeing Co. (NYSE: BA) has identified a new quality problem on Renton-built 737 Max 8 planes, Reuters reported, involving Wichita, Kansas-based supplier Spirit AeroSystems (NYSE: SPR).

The issue is related to improperly drilled holes on the aft pressure bulkhead. In an emailed statement to the Business Journal, Boeing said it is working to determine how many planes the issue affects.

Near-term deliveries will be delayed in light of the discovery, the company said. Boeing is examining its annual delivery target schedule, which is at least 450 737s this year.

Boeing has been working over the past several months to increase its output of 737 planes to 38 per month from its Renton facility and create a new production line in Everett. But production has been hampered by repeated issues with suppliers, including a problem with fittings installed by Spirit on the aft fuselage that was uncovered in April.

https://www.bizjournals.com/seattle/news/2023/08/24/spirit-aerosystems-issues-in-boeing-737.html