Boeing announced plans to reacquire Spirit AeroSystems for $4. 7 billion in Boeing stock, a move designed to bolster its manufacturing capabilities and address safety concerns following a series of high-profile incidents. The deal marks a homecoming of sorts for Spirit Aero, which Boeing spun off in 2005.
The agreement comes after months of negotiation and follows a fuselage blowout incident on a Boeing 737 Max in January, which raised questions about Boeing's manufacturing processes. The incident, along with the lingering effects of two fatal 737 Max crashes in 2018 and 2019, tarnished Boeing's reputation and resulted in increased scrutiny from regulators.
Boeing officials said the acquisition would enable a deeper integration of manufacturing and engineering operations between the two companies, with a particular focus on enhancing safety and quality control measures. This closer alignment is intended to streamline production and prevent future quality lapses.
Analysts offered mixed reactions to the deal. Some believe it will provide Boeing with greater oversight and improve supply chain efficiency. Others expressed concerns about the potential for integration challenges and the impact on Boeing's already strained finances.
Spirit Aero has also faced its share of troubles in recent years, including layoffs and production slowdowns. The company's CEO, Pat Shanahan, framed the acquisition as an opportunity to leverage Boeing's resources and expertise to ensure Spirit's long-term viability.
The deal is not without its complexities. Airbus, another major customer of Spirit Aero, will take over the company's European manufacturing operations that produce parts for Airbus jets. Boeing will compensate Airbus with $559 million to facilitate this separation.
The agreement between Boeing and Spirit Aero is still subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions. Industry observers anticipate potential scrutiny from antitrust regulators, who may examine the impact of the deal on competition in the aerospace supply chain.
If approved, the acquisition would mark a significant consolidation within the aerospace industry and could have lasting repercussions for the future of Boeing's commercial airplane programs. The success of the deal will likely hinge on Boeing's ability to effectively integrate Spirit Aero's operations and restore confidence in its manufacturing processes.