Despite an ongoing problem slowing 737 MAX production and deliveries during Q1 2023, Boeing Co. recommitted to its plan to increase the production rate for its narrow-body aircraft from 31 to 38 jets/month. Its stated plan also is to increase production of its top-selling series to 50 jets/month by 2026.
“We are progressing through recent supply-chain disruptions but remain confident in the goals we set for this year, as well as for the longer term. Demand is strong across our key markets," CEO David Calhoun said in a statement commenting on Boeing’s Q1 statement.
Boeing posted a $425-million loss for the quarter, but Calhoun reaffirmed the group’s revenue forecast for $3 billion to $5 billion for 2023.
Even so, the manufacturing problem reported earlier this month continues to affect 737 MAX production, and Boeing has acknowledge that some pending orders will not be completed before some major customers face the expected increased demand with summer travel schedules.
In his customary letter to employees on the occasion of the quarterly report, Calhoun explained: “On the 737, as we have shared, a supplier notified us earlier this month that a non-standard manufacturing process was used on two fittings in the aft fuselage section of certain 737 airplanes. While the issue poses no immediate safety of flight concern for the operational fleet, we will work diligently through rework of affected airplanes in production and storage to ensure each meets our standards prior to delivery. This effort will impact the timing of deliveries over the next several months; however, we remain confident in the operational and financial goals we set for this year, as well as for the longer term.
