1kBill
Aug 8, 08, 12:36 am
From The Wall Street Journal:
Lack of Seats, Galleys Delays Boeing, Airbus
By DANIEL MICHAELS and J. LYNN LUNSFORD
August 8, 2008; Page B1
Airbus and Boeing Co. have both struggled with complex technology and assembly issues that have delayed ambitious new jet models. Now the manufacturing rivals face a more basic problem with the production of their existing planes: a shortage of less-advanced equipment such as seats, toilets and galleys that is slowing down their assembly lines.
The lack of more-mundane components is disrupting production lines at both aviation giants, increasing their manufacturing costs. It is also slowing millions of dollars in payments from aircraft customers, which normally fork over a significant part of a jetliner's price on delivery, following installment payments during production.
The problem stems from small suppliers that have overcommitted to build equipment and didn't gear up production fast enough to deliver it. The suppliers' struggle to deliver certain items -- like cooking galleys customized with rice cookers and espresso makers -- is taking a toll.
Balance of article is here (http://online.wsj.com/article_print/SB121814231590821815.html), but may require subscription.
Lack of Seats, Galleys Delays Boeing, Airbus
By DANIEL MICHAELS and J. LYNN LUNSFORD
August 8, 2008; Page B1
Airbus and Boeing Co. have both struggled with complex technology and assembly issues that have delayed ambitious new jet models. Now the manufacturing rivals face a more basic problem with the production of their existing planes: a shortage of less-advanced equipment such as seats, toilets and galleys that is slowing down their assembly lines.
The lack of more-mundane components is disrupting production lines at both aviation giants, increasing their manufacturing costs. It is also slowing millions of dollars in payments from aircraft customers, which normally fork over a significant part of a jetliner's price on delivery, following installment payments during production.
The problem stems from small suppliers that have overcommitted to build equipment and didn't gear up production fast enough to deliver it. The suppliers' struggle to deliver certain items -- like cooking galleys customized with rice cookers and espresso makers -- is taking a toll.
Balance of article is here (http://online.wsj.com/article_print/SB121814231590821815.html), but may require subscription.