Spirit AeroSystems, a key supplier for Boeing, is limiting overtime and hiring as production of Boeing's 737 MAX jets declines, leading to concerns about potential layoffs among employees. Boeing's deliveries have dropped, and the production slowdown is affecting Spirit, which makes about 70% of the 737. The decline in Boeing's output has raised uncertainty and concern among suppliers, and it is not yet clear how this will affect the broader supply chain.
Boeing's quarterly airplane deliveries dropped to 83, the lowest since mid-2021, as the company faces increased scrutiny following a safety crisis. The drop comes after an incident on Alaska Airlines Flight 1282, prompting the FAA to inspect Boeing's 737 Max production and restrict output until quality control is approved. Boeing is slowing production to improve quality control and avoid delays, with CEO Dave Calhoun set to step down by year's end. The company also compensated Alaska Airlines $160 million for a brief grounding of the 737 Max.
Hollywood crew unions are negotiating health and pension benefits with studios and streamers, with the threat of a strike looming, but some crewmembers in Los Angeles report a lack of work following the writers' and actors' walkouts in 2023. Production levels are down, exacerbating hardships for crewmembers, with mental health struggles and financial strain. While New York City shows relatively normal filming activity, the overall industry faces uncertainty and a slow ramp-up, leaving many crewmembers underemployed and anxious about the future.
Ford is reportedly reducing the production of its F-150 Lightning electric pickup trucks due to changing market demand. The automaker plans to adjust its planned production at the Rouge Electric Vehicle Center to an average of 1,600 per week starting in January. Ford will continue to match production to customer demand. This decision comes as Ford aims to better align its production capacity with market dynamics in the evolving electric vehicle industry.
