October 21, 2024 – Following a more than month-long strike at aircraft manufacturer Boeing that has significantly impacted its supplier’s cash flow and inventory space, Spirit AeroSystems announced last week that it will be implementing a mandatory 21-day leave for 700 of its employees.
The strike, which has halted production of Boeing’s 767 and 777 wide-body jets since September 13 due to the walkout of over 33,000 workers at its West Coast factories, is affecting employees working on these projects at Spirit AeroSystems.
In addition to the mandatory leave, Spirit AeroSystems has also implemented various cost-cutting measures, including a hiring freeze, restrictions on travel and overtime, and due to the lack of additional storage space, they are unable to store the 767 and 777 fuselages they have manufactured.
It’s worth noting that according to a report by Reuters last week, the union representing the striking Boeing machinists indicated that its members will vote on a new contract agreement on Wednesday. This proposed agreement includes a 35% wage increase over four years, which could potentially end the strike that has been ongoing for more than a month. The union is scheduled to vote on this proposal on October 23.
