Boeing Co. CEO Dave Calhoun has stated that a strike by the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA) would effectively halt the 777X certification program.
During a recent interview, Calhoun emphasized that the certification process for the 777X aircraft relies heavily on the specialized knowledge of the company's engineering workforce. He noted that if the SPEEA union were to strike, the program would essentially shut down until the engineers returned to work.
The 777X is Boeing's newest wide-body jet, designed to compete with the Airbus A350. The program has faced significant delays and challenges in recent years, including issues with the folding wingtips and engine certification.
The SPEEA is a union that represents engineers and technical workers at Boeing and other aerospace companies. The union has been involved in several labor disputes with Boeing in recent years, including a strike in 2019 that lasted 40 days.
Calhoun's comments come as Boeing continues to work through a series of quality control issues and production challenges. The company has also been under scrutiny from regulators and investors regarding its safety culture and management practices.
The 777X program is a critical part of Boeing's future growth strategy. The aircraft is expected to be a major source of revenue for the company in the coming years. However, the program's success is dependent on the ability of Boeing to overcome its current challenges and deliver the aircraft on time and within budget.
Boeing stock has been under pressure in recent months due to a combination of factors, including the 737 MAX crisis, the grounding of the 737 MAX, and the company's financial performance. The stock is currently trading at $200.13, down 4.56% on the day.
