Boeing 777 freighter output halted for two months over supplier row - Reuters

Boeing has halted production of its 777 freighter for approximately two months due to a supplier dispute, according to reports from Reuters. The controversy stems from a disagreement with Florida-based parts supplier Vaero, which allegedly ceased delivering critical trailing-edge rib kits used in aircraft wing assembly. Boeing relied heavily on these parts, relying on them as the sole source for the essential component.

This disruption is causing the aerospace manufacturer to lose up to $6.5 million daily, as per an August legal complaint reviewed by Reuters. Despite a settlement reached in late September, Boeing has not resumed production of the 777 freighter, three workers familiar with the situation told Reuters. However, some components for the 767 programme have begun arriving, enabling limited progress on affected aircraft.

Boeing is currently working on bringing the production of the trailing-edge rib kits in-house to reduce its dependency on the supplier. The supply interruption has forced the company to remove two partially assembled 777 freighters from its final assembly line in Everett, Washington. One of these aircraft was destined for FedEx, according to aviation consultancy IBA data.

Boeing's next-generation 777X programme remains unaffected by the dispute as it utilizes composite wings, which are not involved in the issue. The company had delivered 21 777 freighters this year, with several other aircraft whose wings were assembled before the supply interruption potentially still being delivered before the end of 2026.

The setback in production comes as Boeing faces ongoing pressure to stabilize its manufacturing operations and maintain deliveries across its commercial and defense programs. Neither Boeing nor Vaero commented on the matter to Reuters, while FedEx also declined to provide a statement.