Boeing halted deliveries of certain models of its popular aircraft on Thursday after discovering quality problems with components provided by Spirit Aerosystems. Boeing encounters yet another quality issue during the assembly of the 737 MAX jets, its highly sought-after commercial airplanes.
On Thursday, the aircraft manufacturer acknowledged that it had suspended deliveries of some planes in order to conduct inspections on two connectors that join the rear fuselage to the vertical tail. Parts were not properly attached to the structure, impacting only units currently in production or storage.
The components are sourced from Spirit Aerosystems, recognized for assembling numerous parts for Boeing aircraft. The problem affects the 737 MAX 7, Max 8, 8-200 models, as well as the previous 737NG series, now being produced as the P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft.
The only unaffected variant is the 737 MAX 9, currently boasting the highest passenger capacity. “This does not pose an immediate safety concern for flights, and the operational fleet can continue to operate safely,” explained Boeing.
As a result of the delivery suspension, the manufacturer must postpone the anticipated increase in production for the upcoming years. Boeing had intended to raise the 737 production rate from 31 to 38 planes per month in June. The goal for 2024 was to achieve a monthly production rate of 42 aircraft.