Boeing 777 freighter production halted by supplier dispute

Boeing has faced a nearly two-month halt in production of its 777 freighter aircraft due to a dispute with Vaero, a Florida-based supplier. The conflict centered on the delivery of a critical wing component known as the trailing-edge rib kit. Because Vaero was the sole provider of this indispensable part, the disruption stalled operations at Boeing’s wing-production facility in Everett, Washington.

The shortage also impacted the 767 production line, affecting both cargo aircraft and KC-46 aerial refueling tankers. According to court filings, the disruption cost Boeing as much as $6.5 million per day. While Boeing and Vaero reached a settlement in late September, internal sources indicate that 777 freighter production has not yet resumed, though some components for the 767 line have been received.

Boeing is reportedly exploring ways to bring the production of these specific wing components in-house to prevent future supply chain vulnerabilities. The 777X program remains unaffected as it utilizes composite wings.