Boeing Faces Production Challenges with 737 MAX, May Impact Air India and Akasa Air Deliveries

Boeing, the American aerospace company, is reportedly facing some production challenges with its best-selling jet, 737 MAX, which may result in delayed deliveries for Air India and Akasa Air. CNBC TV18 reported that the production issue is related to a non-standard manufacturing process used by a third-party supplier to install two fittings in the aft fuselage section of some 737-7, 737-8, 737-8-200, and P-8 models airplanes. This may result in non-conformance to the required specifications, which can compromise the safety and airworthiness of the aircraft.

The Impact on Air India and Akasa Air

Air India had placed an order for 190 737 MAX jets, which was part of its largest-ever order of 470 aircraft. Some of these aircraft were scheduled for delivery this year, but the production issue may cause a delay. Similarly, Akasa Air had placed an order for 72 737 MAX planes, of which it has already received 19. The delivery of the remaining 53 aircraft is expected by March 2027, but the latest development hints at a possible delay, which may hamper the plans of the country’s youngest carrier and affect its ambition to operate on international routes.

Non-Conformance and OEMs

Non-conformance is a term used to describe a situation where a supplier fails to comply with the required standards set by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM). OEMs like Boeing work with several external vendors to supply the required parts in accordance with the set standards. However, some vendors may fail to comply with these standards and supply parts that do not meet the OEM’s requirements. In such cases, the faulty parts need to be replaced to ensure the safety and airworthiness of the aircraft.

Boeing’s Clarification

Boeing Aerospace company has clarified that the planes already in service will not be impacted since the issue is not an immediate flight safety concern. However, the planes still in the production line or in the inventory will undergo replacement. Therefore, Boeing may have to reschedule its delivery arrangements for Air India and Akasa Air.

Conclusion

Boeing’s production challenges with the 737 MAX may result in delayed deliveries for Air India and Akasa Air. The issue is related to a non-standard manufacturing process used by a third-party supplier, which may result in non-conformance to the required specifications. While the planes already in service are not impacted, those in the production line or inventory will undergo replacement. Boeing may have to reschedule its delivery arrangements, which may hamper the expansion plans of these airlines.