Boeing delays delivery of 737 MAX due to fuselage problems
The American aircraft manufacturer Boeing has confirmed that it will have to perform additional work on 50 737 MAX fuselages, which could lead to a delay in deliveries. The problem stemmed from 2 improperly drilled holes found on some fuselages by Boeing supplier Spirit AeroSystems.
Boeing has assured that the problem does not pose a safety risk, and all 737 MAXs already in service can continue to fly. The company's spokespersons said this in a letter to Reuters.
Boeing Commercial Airplanes CEO Stan Diehl thanked the Spirit AeroSystems employee who discovered the problem.
Boeing plans to devote several "factory days" at the Renton 737 plant to check for defects in at least 50 undelivered aircraft.
In addition, Boeing has asked the supplier to suspend deliveries until the work is completed and all the sides are inspected in great detail.
Boeing is expected to determine the final time required for the finalization in the coming days.
"While this delay in shipment will impact our production schedule, it will improve overall quality and stability," the company said in a commentary.
Parts that already meet the required specifications can continue to be shipped.