Emirates president Tim Clark, the airline, has urged Boeing to swiftly address its quality issues.
As one of Boeing’s significant clients, Emirates has voiced its support for a potential Boeing takeover of Spirit AeroSystems, considering it a crucial step toward resolving Boeing’s industrial and quality crisis.
The US regulators have initiated factory audits at both Emirate’s Boeing and its supplier, Spirit, following a severe incident in January involving the blowout of a dummy door on a 737 MAX 9 airliner, attributed to missing bolts.
Expressing his concerns, Tim Clark emphasized the urgency for Boeing to address its quality problems promptly, stressing that the undivided attention of the board and top management is imperative. Failure to do so could raise doubts about Boeing’s future.
Last week, Boeing disclosed discussions regarding the acquisition of its former subsidiary. Additionally, industry sources revealed discussions between Spirit and Boeing’s competitor, Airbus, exploring the possibility of Airbus taking over some Spirit operations that supply parts.
Spirit plays a significant role in Emirates Boeing’s production, manufacturing approximately 70% of the 737 MAX and constructing the forward fuselage for the 787 and future 777X, both of which are part of Emirates’ orders. Notably, Spirit was separated from Boeing in 2005.
Clark expressed his confusion regarding Emirates Boeing’s decision to spin off Spirit, likening it to Emirates outsourcing its engineering and operations to another entity, a practice contrary to their operational philosophy. He believes this decision has posed challenges for Boeing ever since.
Known as one of the industry’s influential leaders, Clark has previously criticized both Boeing and Airbus for industrial flaws, delays, and strategic decisions. While discussing Boeing’s future in London, he hinted at the possibility of new governance for Boeing, suggesting that such changes often involve personnel adjustments.
During the ITB travel fair in Berlin, Clark cautiously supported Boeing’s CEO, Dave Calhoun, advocating for direct involvement by the company’s board. He emphasized the necessity for Boeing’s board to prioritize addressing the quality crisis, warning that failure to do so could jeopardize the company’s existence.
Responding to inquiries about Boeing’s recovery timeline, Clark emphasized the need for substantial resources and an unwavering focus from the board. He underscored the gravity of the situation, emphasizing that another similar event could severely impact Boeing’s future.
Calhoun has acknowledged the need for profound change within Boeing and reassured that the leadership is fully committed to meeting the challenge.
Regarding another issue, Clark discussed progress in resolving a dispute with Rolls-Royce over the durability of engines for the A350-1000. However, he insisted on seeing maintenance improvements planned by Rolls before placing orders for the Airbus jet.
Clark also commented on broader trends in the airline industry, noting expectations of continued high demand and resulting higher fares. He highlighted a surge in air cargo activity due to attacks on Red Sea shipping, indicating ongoing challenges and opportunities within the industry.
Furthermore, Clark touched upon a separate issue concerning the durability of engines for the A350-1000, highlighting a dispute with Rolls-Royce. He emphasized that before Emirates commits to ordering the Emirate’s Airbus jet, they need to witness the planned maintenance improvements by Rolls-Royce. During Rolls-Royce CEO Tufan Erginbilgic’s visit to Dubai, he outlined the company’s intention to invest a billion pounds in enhancing the Trent engine family, demonstrating a determination to resolve the issue.
Shifting focus to broader trends in the Emirate’s airline industry, Clark pointed out the anticipation of sustained high demand, which is likely to maintain elevated airfares. Additionally, he noted a significant increase in air cargo activity resulting from attacks on Red Sea shipping, indicating both challenges and opportunities within the industry.
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