Airbus CEO Suggests Possible Acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems Plants Amid Boeing’s Supplier Buyout Plans

8 months ago Editor

Fate of Plants and Thousands of Workers Hangs in Balance Amid Industry Shake-Up

image source: REUTERS/Benoit Tessier

In a move that could reshape the aerospace manufacturing landscape, Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury has indicated that the European aircraft manufacturer is considering the possibility of acquiring two plants currently operated by Spirit AeroSystems in the United States and the United Kingdom. The potential acquisition comes in response to Boeing’s plans to purchase one of its key suppliers, raising questions about the future of these facilities and the thousands of workers they employ.

The plants in question, located in Kinston, North Carolina, and Belfast, Northern Ireland, employ approximately 4,000 workers combined and play crucial roles in the aerospace supply chain. The Kinston facility specializes in producing composite panels for the upper fuselage section and carbon-fiber spars for the wings of Airbus’s long-haul A350 aircraft. Meanwhile, the Belfast plant manufactures composite wings for the A220, utilizing advanced technology to streamline production processes.

Faury noted that Airbus’s expertise in wing manufacturing positions the company as a potential “legitimate owner” of the Belfast operations, while its capabilities in producing aircraft sections could make it a suitable owner for the Kinston plant as well. However, Faury emphasized that any decision regarding the acquisition of these plants would depend on Boeing’s actions and Airbus’s assessment of the situation.

The potential acquisition of these facilities by Airbus comes amidst ongoing discussions between Boeing, Spirit AeroSystems, and Airbus regarding the future of the supplier. Reports suggest that the parties are exploring various scenarios, including a potential breakup of Spirit AeroSystems, with each planemaker taking over certain operations. However, valuations remain a significant hurdle in reaching a final agreement.

The prospect of Airbus acquiring these plants underscores the complexities of the aerospace industry and the interconnected relationships between aircraft manufacturers and their suppliers. As the industry navigates through challenges such as supply chain disruptions and shifts in market dynamics, the fate of these plants and their workers hangs in the balance, awaiting clarity on the path forward.

With Airbus signaling its readiness to play a role in the evolving landscape of aerospace manufacturing, the industry braces for potential changes that could have far-reaching implications. As discussions progress and decisions are made, stakeholders remain vigilant, recognizing the importance of finding sustainable solutions that support the industry’s long-term growth and resilience.