Fastener Supply Shortage Still Plagues Dreamliner

Jason Sandefur

Fasteners were highlighted as a continuing problem as aerospace industry analysts warned of further delays on Boeing’s flight-test of its 787 Dreamliner, the Associated Press reports.
In November material shortages for fasteners forced Boeing to announce a second delay in delivery for the 787, slated for delivery in late 2008.
“We’ve made progress on fasteners, but they still remain an issue for us,” stated Boeing spokesperson Yvonne Leach.
The delays have caused a sell off of Boeing stock, which has declined more than 20% since July. Further delay, estimated at an additional two months, could push share price lower.
The problems also have prompted Boeing to replace the head of its Dreamliner program, which has been hampered by a critical shortage of aerospace fasteners and other supply problems. Web: boeing.com �2008 FastenerNews.com