Harsha Walvekar1, Mahmoud Al Ahmad2, Qurban Memon2, and Michael Pecht1
1Center for Advanced Life Cycle Engineering (CALCE), University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
2Electrical Engineering Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE
For more information about this article and related research, please contact Prof. Michael Pecht.
Abstract:
This study analyzes the impact of Boeing’s outsourcing strategy on aircraft safety and production efficiency, focusing on the 787 Dreamliner program. The intended benefits of cost reduction and accelerated production are examined against the realities of risk-sharing arrangements and documented issues like faulty materials from suppliers such as Kobe Steel. The study investigates how these outsourcing practices, coupled with Boeing’s self-certification license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), contributed to lapses in regulatory oversight and quality control. Applying a risk analysis to Boeing’s supply chain, its risk treatment and monitoring processes are assessed. This study delves into the complexities and associated problems of Boeing’s risk-sharing supplier partnerships. Based on the findings, this study suggests enhancing supply chain resilience, ensuring regulatory adherence, and bolstering quality management systems to rebuild trust in Boeing’s manufacturing processes and support long-term sustainability.
This article is available online here and to CALCE Consortium Members for personal review.