First Agreement of its Kind for Boeing Will See Outside MRO Support for Large, High Value Parts

Boeing Global Services has completed an agreement with up and coming MRO provider Spirit AeroSystems to provide nacelle and flight control repairs for Max operators around the globe. 

The agreement leverages Spirit's extensive experience with the 737 Max as the type's original production manufacturer, having made the fuselage, thrust reversers, slats, and flaps. This new MRO agreement is new ground for Boeing as the first pooling program Boeing has offered for these expensive, expansive structural parts. The change, however, should provide enhanced services to customers around the world, greatly expanding the coverage for such specialized repair. 

“With this agreement," said Mini Desai, VP of commercial spares, "Boeing is strategically positioned to assist all 737 MAX operators by providing lease and exchange programs to respond quickly to unforeseen events. Our business serves our customer base beyond the sale of aircraft, and now we can expand lease and exchange support for aerostructures with Spirit AeroSystems.”

Spirit is one of the largest aerostructure manufacturers for a range of aircraft, from commercial carriers and business jets all the way on to defense platforms. Their MRO operations have grown extensively in recent years, going from a small Kansas concern to a globe-spanning concern. Senior VP of aftermarket services at Spirit, Kailash Krishnaswamy, says that their selection recognizes how far the company has come in recent years. 

“Over the last three years, we have expanded from a single MRO center in Wichita to five MRO centers on four continents, which will allow us to serve Boeing’s global customers locally. This strategic partnership will allow us to provide customized, high-quality MRO solutions at industry leading turn-around times for our customers’ 737 MAX nacelles and flight controls.”

FMI: www.boeing.com, www.spiritaero.com