Boeing claims that a production issue will delay 737 Max delivery.

Boeing is facing yet another challenge that could impact the production and delivery of its popular 737 Max airplane. The issue revolves around a part made by supplier Spirit AeroSystems, where a “non-standard” manufacturing process was used on two fittings in aft fuselages. Although the problem isn’t considered an “immediate safety of flight issue,” it could result in Boeing having to reduce its deliveries of the 737 Max in the near future. The issue affects various models, including the 737 Max 8, 737 Max 7, 737 8200, and P-8 planes.

Boeing has alerted the Federal Aviation Administration about the issue and is working with Spirit AeroSystems to inspect and resolve the fuselage problem. However, the problem is the latest in a string of production problems for the company. Earlier this year, Boeing paused deliveries of its 787 Dreamliners to address a data analysis flaw. In 2021 and 2022, it had other production problems that halted deliveries of its wide-body jets for months.

Shares of Boeing dropped 4% in after-hours trading after the announcement. Spirit AeroSystems’ shares also fell nearly 8%. Both companies have said they are working with customers to resolve the issue and minimize the impact on deliveries. However, airline executives have cited the supply constraints of new jets as one of the primary challenges they face in ramping up their flying schedule ahead of peak travel season.

It remains to be seen how this latest issue will affect Boeing’s production and delivery schedule, but it is undoubtedly a setback for the company and its customers.