Further structural problems with Boeing’s twin-aisle 787 Dreamliner have forced the American planemaker to adjust production numbers. Boeing has also adjusted anticipated delivery numbers for the year to under half of the remaining 100 in its inventory, as opposed to the “vast majority” previously anticipated. The latest problem will now see the monthly production rate drop below the current five units, though no indication of the new rate was provided.
According to the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the latest problem with the stricken jet relates to gaps where certain components are joined together in a forward pressure bulkhead. Deliveries of the 787 Dreamliner had only just begun again in March after a five-month break. “We will continue to take the necessary time to ensure Boeing airplanes meet the highest quality prior to delivery,” Boeing said in a statement, while confirming that company’s backlog of aircraft increased in June from 4,121 to 4,166.
Boeing handed over 45 planes to customers in June, its highest monthly total since March 2019, with the June total including ten wide-body aircraft, one of which was a 787-9 for Turkish Airlines. It also delivered 35 737s, including 33 737 MAXs and two P-8 maritime patrol aircraft to the U.S. Navy.
