Boeing and Airbus are reportedly nearing a deal to divide troubled supplier Spirit AeroSystems.
According to an exclusive Reuters report, sources familiar with the situation claim both giants are exploring a “framework” agreement to disentangle themselves from Spirit in a coordinated fashion.
The report suggests discussions are ongoing, but the exact format remains unclear. While it’s uncertain if face-to-face meetings have occurred, all three companies are seemingly involved in the talks, Reuters reported.
The motivation behind this potential deal stems from Spirit AeroSystems’ current struggles. The supplier manufactures parts for both Boeing and Airbus, including crucial components for the 737 MAX and Dreamliner programs as well as wings for the Airbus A320, A330, and A340 families of aircraft. By splitting ownership of Spirit’s facilities, Boeing and Airbus aim for greater control over their supply chains, potentially leading to improved quality, efficiency, and delivery times.
A military history enthusiast, Richard began at Forecast International as editor of the World Weapons Weekly newsletter. As the Internet grew in importance as a research tool, he helped design the company's Forecast Intelligence Center and currently coordinates the EMarket Alert newsletters for clients. Richard also manages social media efforts, including two new blogs: Defense & Security Monitor, covering defense systems and international issues, and Flight Plan, which focuses on commercial aviation and space systems. For over 30 years, Richard has authored the Defense & Aerospace Companies, Volume I (North America) and Volume II (International) services. The two books provide detailed data on major aerospace and defense contractors. He also edits the International Contractors service, a database that tracks all the contractors involved in the programs covered in the FI library. More recently he was appointed Manager, Information Services Group (ISG), a new unit that encompasses developing outbound content for both Forecast International and Military Periscope.
