Boeing Lays Off ‘Vital’ Contractors in Sweeping Cost Cuts

Many of the contractors were brought out of retirement.

The 777X static model being rolled out in Everett, Wash. (Photo: Boeing)

[ News ]September 17, 2024 11:47 am ET

By Ryan Ewing

Boeing is laying off several experienced contractors as part of broad cost-cutting measures announced by the company’s finance chief on Monday. The manufacturing giant said it was considering furloughs for some management and executive-level staff.

The Seattle Times reports that some layoffs have already begun. The manufacturer reportedly removed “dozens” of engineering contractor positions with only a day’s notice.

These contractors are largely retired employees who were brought back to help fix ongoing manufacturing issues with the Boeing 777X, 787 Dreamliner, and 737 MAX. Speaking to The Seattle Times, one engineer described the contractors as “vital,” calling the move “just another very bad decision in a continuing long line of bad decisions.”

Boeing continues to grapple with an ongoing strike of its Machinists. The labor group walked off the jobs on Friday after negotiations with the company fell through.

According to some estimates, the strike could cost Boeing up to $3.5 billion.

Author
Recent Posts

Follow Ryan

Ryan Ewing

Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.

Follow Ryan

Author

Ryan Ewing

Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.
View all posts